2021 Traffic Fatalities Reach a 16-year High

Posted on behalf of RizkLaw on Sep 20, 2022 in Auto Accident

Traffic fatalities reached a 16-year high as the U.S. was emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates over 42,915 victims suffered a fatal motor vehicle collision in 2021, increasing from 10.5% in 2020. Causes, such as reckless driving and speeding, distracted driving, and alcohol and drug-related driving, were all contributing factors to this record high since 1975. 

If you suffered a car accident-related injury due to a negligent driver and have sustained economic and non-economic losses, you may recover compensatory damages with the skilled guidance of the experienced Rizk Law lawyers. We understand you could be facing costly medical treatment and physical limitations due to severe injuries, and you shouldn’t have to be financially responsible for the actions of someone else. By conducting an extensive investigation into your accident and obtaining necessary evidence, we may build a robust case to fight for the justice you deserve. 

Causes of 2021 Traffic Fatality Increases 

The Portland Bureau of Transportation also released traffic-crash data illustrating a grave increase in collision fatalities, with 63 people suffering a fatality in 2021, the highest number of accident deaths since 1990. There are contributing factors that have played a significant part in these record numbers, including:  

Speeding 

According to NHTSA, there was an increase of 5% in traffic fatalities caused by speeding in 2021, making a 17% leap from 2019 to 2020. Overall, speeding and reckless driving are dangerous and inhibit a driver’s ability to react in a timely manner and heed to dangerous road conditions. 

Distracted Driving 

Unfortunately, not everyone operating a motor vehicle upholds a lawful duty of care by not participating in distracted driving behaviors. Texting and driving, talking on the phone, engaging with passengers, and fiddling with the radio or smartphone are all contributors to distracting driving accidents. In 2020 there were over 3,00 distracted-driving fatality victims, with over 300,000 victims injured and requiring medical care involving distracted drivers.

There are three primary types of distraction:

  • Visual: Behaviors that take your eyes off the road
  • Physical: Behaviors that take your hands off the wheel
  • Cognitive: Behaviors that take your focus off driving

If you have sustained injuries due to a distracted driver, speak with the experienced Rizk Law lawyers for a detailed assessment of your claim. We may conduct an extensive investigation into the direct cause of your accident and analyze evidence to demonstrate fault. 

Drug and Alcohol-Related Driving 

During the pandemic, the fatalities in alcohol-involved collisions significantly climbed 15% from 2019 to 2020. In 2021, the estimated fatalities still increased by 5% from 2020 to 2021, demonstrating that collisions due to alcohol and drug-related crashes were higher than pre-pandemic numbers of 2019. 

How the Rizk Law Lawyers Can Help With Your Car Accident Claim 

Depending on the circumstances of your motor vehicle accident and the extent of your injuries, the Rizk Law lawyers may be able to build a robust case on your behalf. We understand the devastating toll that car collision injuries may have on your daily life and how challenging pursuing justice may be when you are trying to focus on recovery. 

We can help bolster your chances of success in a car accident claim by handling the following: 

  • Investigations into the specific circumstances and details of your accident 
  • Obtaining evidence that demonstrates cause and fault 
  • Retaining field experts to further solidify your right to compensation 
  • Providing dedicated and trusted representation if an agreeable settlement cannot be reached 

We understand that no two car accident claims are alike. We offer personalized and compassionate representation to fight for the compensation you deserve. 

Speak With Attorney Richard Rizk for Skilled Legal Representation in Oregon

Severe injuries sustained in a car accident caused by negligence may cause lasting injuries and other losses. The Rizk Law lawyers have helped countless victims fight for the compensation they deserve across Oregon. Attorney Richard Rizk has extensive resources and knowledgeable legal guidance to navigate the complexities of your claim and work to obtain the best outcome for your case. 

Speak with one of our lawyers by calling (503) 245-5677 or filling out our contact form.