What contributes to Fatal Accidents?

Accident fatalities are devastating. Recent statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration show accident fatalities fell 25 percent over the decade starting in 2004. Even with that promising drop, there were still 32,719 people killed in auto accidents in 2013.

There are many causes of deadly accidents, including:

• Texting while driving
• Distracted driving
• Drunk driving
• Driving under the influence of drugs
• Drowsy driving
• Poorly designed roads
• Dangerous roads
• Defective vehicles or vehicle components

These causes of accidents are wholly preventable, which is what makes accidents caused by them so tragic. Careless drivers who cause fatal accidents should be held accountable, and they often are in lawsuits, if not criminally.

Auto accidents can lead to brain injuries, or injury to the neck, head and spine. Oftentimes truck accidents are some of the most catastrophic and violent accidents that occur because of the size and weight of tractor trailers. Families of people killed in fatal accidents may be able to pursue compensation in a wrongful death claim. In these types of cases, compensatory damages may be provided for things like funeral expenses, loss of the loved one’s financial contributions, and loss of companionship.