The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) conducted a study in 2019. They found that approximately 36,500 people were killed and 4.5 million were injured in auto accidents that year. The NHTSA concluded that the traffic crashes costs society $340 billion in one year. The study also calculated that from 1975 to 2019 seat belt use saved 404,000 lives.
In 2021, nearly 43,000 people were killed on U.S. roads; that is the highest number in 16 years. The approximately 10% increase over 2020 was the largest increase ever since the NHTSA began collecting such data on fatalities in 1975.
According to the NHTSA, “This report drives home just how devastating traffic crashes are for families, and the economic burden they place on society.” In an attempt to reduce the deaths, the federal government is sending $5 billion in aid to cities to slow vehicles, carve out bike paths and encourage commuters to use public transit.
When someone is injured or dies as a result of an accident, financial recovery may be available. Such recovery is particularly important when permanent, life changing injuries are incurred. It is important to contact someone who understands the intricacies of the injured party’s right to recover.
If you or someone you know has been injured in an accident, contact an attorney at Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner by calling 713-222-7211 or toll free at 1-800-870-9584. Abraham Watkins offers a free consultation to anyone wishing to pursue a claim for such injuries or fatalities.