Traffic deaths in the United States have risen 14% in the first six months of 2015, ahead of the same time period for 2014, putting the U.S. on track to have its deadliest year since 2007. On August 17th, the National Safety Counsel released its Motor Vehicle Fatality Estimates. According to the report, there have been 18,630 motor vehicle related deaths since the start of the year.
New York ranks 13th in motor vehicle deaths so far this year, totaling 430 deaths. In addition to a rising fatality toll, medically consulted injuries in 2015 are estimated to have increased by 30% over the first six months of 2014, with a total of 2,254,000 reported injury cases. The estimated healthcare cost for these cases account for approximately $152 billion.
The National Safety Counsel attributes these rising motor vehicle injuries and deaths to the strength of the economy and decrease in gas prices. With more people working, more people are driving to work. And with gas prices lower, more people are driving in general.
Other hazards that are believed to be contributing to this dramatic spike to injuries and deaths are an increase in motorists who are texting, emailing, or using social media while driving. The NSC estimates that texting while driving increases the chances of an accident by eight times.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a motor vehicle accident and sustained serious injuries, contact our office for a free consultation.
