Driving comes with certain risks no matter where you are traveling. Whether you are on a busy interstate or a local two-lane road, you could be at risk for an accident due to the actions of others. While you cannot predict what other drivers will do, you may be able to learn how to drive in a way that reduces your chance for a crash and allows you to be as safe as possible on all Texas roads.
This is important as statistics reveal that fatal motor vehicle accidents could be more common in the Lone Star State. A close look at accident numbers from the last few years has revealed a startling trend. The overall number of accidents is higher, something that may be related to a time during the pandemic when there were fewer vehicles on the road. Additionally, the number of fatal collisions is also higher, a fact that is concerning to state officials.
An increase in deadly incidents
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, fatal accidents continue to rise in Texas and across the United States. In just the first quarter of this year, there were also 10,000 traffic fatalities in the country. In this recent report, Texas gained negative attention as approximately 1,000 of these first-quarter traffic deaths took place in the state. Sadly, statistics from the Texas Department of Transportation reveal that there is approximately one traffic death per day.
One reason for the increase in the number of traffic fatalities is an increase in risky behavior by drivers. Speeding, distraction, reckless driving and more all contribute to the likelihood of a crash. Authorities hoped to see a decrease in risky driving after the pandemic, but as that has not been the case, different safety campaigns have launched in an effort to educate drivers and bring attention to a growing problem. One of the recent ones focused on the dangers of speeding.
Victims and loved ones
If you are the victim of an accident caused by the reckless behaviors of another driver, or you are mourning the loss of a loved one, you may have legal options available to you. You may be able to seek recovery of your losses and appropriate damages through the civil justice system. While this cannot reverse the trauma of a serious car accident, it may provide you with the tools necessary to rebuild your life and move forward.