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2016 Traffic Deaths Accelerate Ahead of Traffic Increases

Posted on behalf of James Lynch on January 18, 2017  in Car Accident News. Updated on February 24, 2022

silver car accident with ambulanceIn the first nine months of 2016, traffic deaths rose approximately eight percent, according to preliminary data released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

As traffic accidents continue to rise, our New Jersey auto accident lawyers remain committed to helping injury victims fight for the compensation they deserve for their injuries.

Upward Trend in Accident Deaths

These 2016 statistics continue an upward trend in traffic deaths, which first began in late 2014. In the first nine months of 2016, 1.15 fatalities occurred for every 100 million vehicle miles traveled, totaling 27,875 deaths. In the same period of 2015, the rate was 1.10 deaths per 100 million vehicle miles traveled, totaling 25,808 deaths.

More Americans today are hitting the roads, traveling approximately three percent more miles in 2016’s first nine months. Experts cite lower gas prices and a growing economy as reasons behind the travel increase.

Despite this increased travel trend, the traffic death uptick has outpaced the nation’s increase in roadway travel. This is quite alarming, as today’s automakers continue to work toward improving vehicle safety through the addition of enhanced safety features like automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control.

Distracted driving may also contribute to the increase in traffic fatalities, as more devices are used while driving, though the increase is difficult to determine. Weather also plays a role, as traffic fatalities often increase during warm weather.

While the nation’s overall traffic fatality rate is rising, regional traffic fatality rates vary widely. In the first nine months of 2016, the New England traffic fatality rate increased 20 percent. In the region including the Dakotas, Wyoming, Colorado, Nevada, and Utah, the fatality rate rose only one percent.

Have you lost a loved one in a fatal traffic accident? Hold responsible drivers accountable for the pain they have caused your family. The New Jersey based personal injury attorneys at Lynch Law Firm, PC can help you determine if you have a case and may be entitled to compensation.

Call (800) 518-0508  today.

* Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.

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