A few years ago, many Americans stayed home due to pandemic-related health concerns. People worked from home and went to school online, so there were significantly fewer drivers on the roads. In Texas, fewer drivers on the roads led to fewer overall numbers of car accidents and accident-related injuries. However, as life returned to normal, more drivers got back on the road, and as you would assume, the overall number of car accidents increased.
Unfortunately, this has led to an increase in the overall number of reckless driving incidents and poor behavior from drivers in Texas and across the United States. Studies find that the number of fatal accidents is at a 16-year high. This is concerning, and it has caused many to wonder about the source of the issue and how to lower the number of serious crashes.
The factors that contribute to fatal accidents
Accident statistics released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicate that approximately 43,000 people died in automobile accidents in 2021. This is a 16-year high, and the main causes for these accidents are related to distraction, alcohol use, speeding and other preventable factors. Approximately 12% of all these accidents involved at least one distracted driver. Distraction in all forms continues to be one of the leading causes of accidents and one of the primary safety concerns on all roads across the country.
Other types of fatal accidents are also on the rise. Statistics indicate that the overall number of pedestrians killed in crashes was up 13%, and cyclist deaths were also higher. Additionally, speed-related accident fatalities were also up 8%. The NHTSA states that simply reducing distraction caused by phone use would make the roads much safer for everyone. In addition to phone use, distracting behaviors include eating or drinking while driving, talking to a passenger and more.
Are you the victim of a preventable accident?
If you are a Texas driver, you have likely seen some of the dangerous behavior drivers display. Each person behind the wheel is accountable for the choices he or she makes while operating a vehicle. It is the responsibility of each individual to adhere to the rules of the road and avoid risky behaviors. If you are the victim of a preventable accident, the civil justice system offers you a way to recoup your losses and seek a full and fair recovery after a crash.