Experts Predict Surge in Labor Day Traffic Fatalities this Year
Estimates from the National Safety Council (NSC) indicate that we may experience the largest number of Labor Day auto accident fatalities in 8 years. The NSC, a nonprofit organization dedicated to researching ways to lower traffic fatalities, has also found that motor vehicle accident fatalities between January and June 2016 are up 9% from the same time period in 2015. This figure also represents an 18% increase compared with the fatality totals during the first 6 months of 2014.
The NSC has predicted approximately 438 individuals will die in auto accidents over the upcoming Labor Day weekend. The last time Labor Day vehicle accident fatalities were this high was in 2008, when 473 people were killed in collisions.
The rise in car accident fatalities over the past few years is an alarming trend. According to the NSC, there are several economic factors at play which are increasing the number of vehicles on the road. These include:
- Lower gas prices
- A stronger economy
- A lower unemployment rate
In addition, distracted driving has been a growing problem that has created more dangerous road conditions in recent years. This issue is especially prevalent among young drivers. A recent NSC survey of over 1,000 drivers between the ages of 15 and 17 found that:
- 35% of drivers in this age range use social media while driving
- 21% video chat while driving
- 43% text while driving
Whether you are leaving town on a road trip or staying in the Dallas area to celebrate Labor Day with friends and family, it’s important that you exercise extreme caution while driving. Don’t get behind the wheel if you’ve been drinking at a Labor Day party, and put your cell phone away so that you can concentrate on the road. In addition, be on the lookout for erratic driving behavior from others on the road which may be indicative of distracted or drunk driving.
If you are injured in an auto accident over Labor Day weekend that is caused by the negligence of another driver, you may be entitled to recover compensation for your damages. The Turley Law Firm has been fighting for the rights of accident victims in the Dallas area for more than 40 years. We will stand by your side every step of the way in order to help you hold the negligent driver accountable for your injuries.
Please contact the Turley Law Firm using the form on this page or call 214-691-4025 today to schedule your free auto accident consultation. We serve clients in the Dallas, Texas area.