2021 – The Highest Number of Car Accident Deaths in Sixteen Years

Nearly 43,000 people were killed on U.S. roads in 2021.  That means nearly 118 people die every single day as a result of a car accident.  That is the highest number of car accident deaths in 16 years.  And the three states that led the charge were Texas, California, and Florida.

A group of state traffic safety officials blamed the increase on dangerous behavior such as speeding, driving while impaired by alcohol and drugs, and distracted driving, as well as “roads designed for speed instead of safety.”

The 10.5% increase in car accident deaths “was the largest percentage increase since the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration began its fatality data collection system in 1975.”  Making matters worse, risky driving behaviors that became more prevalent during the pandemic, such as speeding and less frequent use of seat belts, remained in 2021 as people returned to the roads.

Crashes occurring during out of state travel jumped 15%, compared to 2020.  Fatalities in urban areas and deaths in multi-vehicle crashes each rose 16%.  Pedestrian deaths were up 13%.

What Should You Do (And Not Do) if You Are in a Car Accident?

• Should I call the police?   A police officer will take statements from you, the driver, and witnesses and create a detailed report.  This report will become very useful for your claim.
• Should I speak to witnesses?   But be careful with what you say.  You should find out what they saw and what they know.  You should also get their contact information and email.  See bullet point below on what you should not talk about.
• Should I gather evidence? Absolutely!  Take photos of the damage to your and the other driver’s vehicle.  If your frame is damaged, take a photo.  Feel free to record a video of all the damage.
• Should I get medical care?   The physical forces exerted on the body during a car crash can cause serious injuries that are not immediately noticeable, but observable by diagnostic testing, including x-rays, CT scans, and MRI’s.  Also, your medical records will serve as evidence of the nature and extent of your injuries.
• Should I hire an attorney? If you have been injured in a car wreck, you should call an attorney to discuss what options are available to you.
• Should I post about the car accident on the internet? No!
• Should I give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company? No!
• Should I talk with the other driver? Be yourself.  Feel free to check on their wellbeing, but do not get into any discussion about the cause of the crash.  You also should not admit fault or imply that you did anything wrong.

Schedule a Free Consultation with Morrow & Sheppard’s Texas and Louisiana Personal Injury Attorneys

It is important to choose a lawyer who is familiar with the applicable laws related to car accidents.  Morrow & Sheppard’s experienced attorneys can help you recover damages for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.  If you or a loved one have been injured in a car accident, call us today for a free, confidential consultation at 800-489-2216.