Recent data shows that a good trend in auto safety continued in 2024. Estimates from the first three quarters of 2024 show that the number of deaths from auto accidents was down from 2023. If these estimates are correct, that will mean auto fatalities have dropped for 10 consecutive quarters.
The Trend in Fatal Car Crashes
The National Safety Council estimates that 2023 saw more than 44,000 people killed in car and truck accidents. In Texas that year, there wasn’t a single day without a traffic fatality. Luckily, in the U.S., the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) noted that 2024 was on pace to see a 4.4 percent decrease in crash fatalities.
Fewer traffic deaths is something to celebrate. That said, it is important to recognize that 40,000 deaths is still a tragedy for the countless family members and friends left behind. Losing someone in a car accident is incredibly painful. A positive trend does nothing to relieve the burden on the people who are suffering.
Across-the-Board Reductions in Car Accident Deaths
States and safety agencies around the country work hard to improve road safety. Preventing accidents has the potential to save lives and money. To that end, efforts have been made to address some of the most common causes of car accidents.
Speeding, distracted driving and drunk driving have all been the subject of safety campaigns. It’s possible these campaigns have been effective. Fatalities tied to these types of accidents have decreased. Of course, it’s possible there is another explanation.
The NHTSA has made a number of changes since 2021 aimed at improving safety equipment required on new vehicles. The growing number of vehicles with these features may be contributing to a decrease in all types of fatal crashes.
Regardless of the cause, what matters most is that fewer accidents claimed the lives of Americans last year than the years before.
Responding to a Wrongful Death Accident
Fatal car and truck accidents are not easy to address. For the loved ones left behind, the emotional, financial and legal difficulties that follow such a tragedy are hard to handle. It’s important to know that insurance companies are not there to support you or help you through this tragic time.
How you respond to the loss of a loved one can make a huge difference in your circumstances moving forward. Having the appropriate resources to support you and your family while dealing with your loss is vital.
Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney Now
Having a skilled car accident lawyer on your side is important to protecting your rights. At the Fell Law Firm, our Texas attorneys have handled countless serious accident cases, including those involving fatal car accidents. To schedule a consultation, contact us online or call 972-450-1418.
