The latest vehicle accident injury crash data from the National Transportation and Safety Administration shows a slight decline in traffic fatalities and injuries from 2005 through 2014. But even a slight decline seems minuscule when you look at the numbers. The key crash data findings for 2014 report that 32,675 people were killed and 2.3 million were injured in vehicle crashes.
Saving Lives & Reducing Vehicle Accident Injury
While the NHTSA is working on compiling and analyzing the crash data for 2015, early statistical projections so far are showing a slight increase in vehicle crash fatalities compared to the first half of 2014. Other data collected shows that some of this may be attributed to a 3.5% increase in vehicle miles traveled on the roadways in the first 6 months of 2015 compared to 2014.
The final vehicle accident crash data will be released by the NHTSA next year after all the information has been compiled and analyzed. By studying crash data the NHTSA hopes to help find guidelines and strategies to reduce vehicle crash injuries and deaths.
It is important to mention that many lives have been saved and injuries lessened due to the use of seat belts, child restraints, and motorcycle helmets. Additionally, car air bags and new safety technology in newer vehicles has also helped save lives and reduce injuries. The Department of Transportation believes that minimum drinking age laws saved an estimated 485 lives in 2014.
All Drivers Do Not Share Safe Driving Values
Between safer car technology, driver and passenger use of seat belts and restraints, use of motorcycle helmets, and drivers observing the law we can all hope to have a safer driving experience. Unfortunately there are always going to be people who do not share safe driving values, are driving distracted, driving in a hurry, or driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. Sometimes car accidents and vehicle injury is caused by a defective car part and the manufacturer may be liable for damages.
If you or a family member has been injured or someone you love has died in a vehicle crash, it is always best to seek the advice of a car accident attorney. First things first, get your accident injury treated by a doctor even if you do not think it is very serious. Sometimes soft tissue injury and other health complications from a car accident do not make themselves obvious immediately. It is important that you have medical documentation from a doctor or other health professional in case of any future accident injury claim.
Attorney Joel Baskin
Contact Joel Baskin, an experienced Atlanta car accident attorney for a free initial consultation about your vehicle accident injury claim. Joel has been helping accident injury victims recover damages for their losses for over 2 decades in the Atlanta area from offices in Cobb & Fulton counties. Call today and schedule your free consultation.