In an effort to help slow the spread of COVID-19, many states have enacted stay-at-home orders which in April, led to a decrease in miles driven by Americans by 40 percent, when compared to April 2019.
Despite this statistic, the National Safety Council (NSC) has reported a 36.6 percent increase in fatalities from road accidents year-over-year. Data shows April 2020 was the second consecutive month we saw these unfortunate trends.
Changing the Culture of Our Roadways
NSC President and CEO, Lorraine Martin, expressed the difficulties of having so many accidents at this time. She explained that at a time when our medical professionals are already inundated with serious patients due to the pandemic, they are now also forced to focus on preventing car crashes. “These numbers underscore our urgent need to change the culture of safety on our roads,” she says.
While there has been less traffic on the road, some have theorized that speeding has played a role in the increase of fatal accidents.
States See Substantial Increase in Roadway Fatalities
With a 7 percent increase, North Carolina joins seven other states that saw substantial increases. Other states include Arkansas (24 percent), Connecticut (45 percent), Illinois (6 percent), Louisiana (17 percent), Minnesota (6 percent), Nevada (7 percent), and Oklahoma (6 percent).
These numbers were calculated prior to the July 4 holiday weekend, during which alcohol was expected to be a factor in at least 40 percent of deaths.
Tips for Staying Safe While on the Road
While you may be excited for things to begin reopening and getting back to “normal,” the NSC has shared important tips for staying safe while on the road:
- Always follow the speed limit – even if the road is free of traffic
- Always wear a seatbelt
- Practice defensive driving
- Designate a sober driver
- Practice with your teen drivers
- Remain off the roads when state and local directives ask you to
- Keep an eye on pedestrian and bicycle traffic
- Avoid distracted driving
- Get enough sleep prior to driving
Henson Fuerst Can Help
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident due to the negligence or recklessness of another person, it can have a profound impact on many aspects of your life. No one should have to pay for the careless mistakes of someone else.
The experienced North Carolina car accident lawyers at Henson Fuerst can help you to navigate the legal system and get the compensation you need. At Henson Fuerst, we fight for what serves you best. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, call us at 919-781-1107 today!
