Broward Injury Lawyer Blog
The total number of traffic accident fatalities has increased for the first time since 2005. According to preliminary estimates from the National Safety Council (NSC), there were more than 36,000 people killed in traffic accidents in the U.S. in 2012. That’s a five percent increase from the year before and the first increase since 2005.
As we sit in the heart of tourist season and we head towards Spring Break, we’re looking at some of the highest risks for accidents. This is especially prevalent in the Fort Lauderdale area, where we’ve got oodles of bicyclists and pedestrians along our roadways. They’re some of the most vulnerable travelers.
Our Fort Lauderdale injury lawyers understand that as the economy improves, the risks for accidents will increase. When residents and visitors are doing better financially, they’re more likely to spend at the pump and to travel. With more total vehicle miles traveled and more travelers along our roadways, accident risks skyrocket. That’s why it’s more important than ever to be cautious, alert and defensive out there. Safe traveling habits can help to keep the risks at bay.
According to these preliminary estimates, the cost of injury accidents that required medical attention jumped about 5 percent as well. The costs for all accidents, including property damage, administrative costs, loss in wages and productivity, employer costs and medical expenses, was more than $276 billion.
“NSC is greatly concerned with the upswing in traffic fatalities on our nation’s roads,” said the NSC’s Janet Froetscher.
The City of Fort Lauderdale offers drivers some safe traveling tips. We want to help to protect motorcyclists, pedestrians, bicyclists and drivers alike. Review the following safety tips:
-Always stay alert. Keep distractions out of the driver’s seat. You want to keep your hands on the wheel, your eyes on the road and your mind on the task at hand — driving.
-Don’t drink and drive. Not only is it dangerous, but it’s against the law. NEVER get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol.
-Keep an eye out for pedestrians and cyclists. There’s a lot of them along our roadways and they have rights, too. Acknowledge those rights and steer clear of these travelers.
-Keep an eye on your vehicle. Keeping up with the maintenance of your car can help to prevent accidents. Keep an eye on the fluids and on the condition of your tires to help you to maintain control out there.
-Be cautious when driving at night and during inclement weather. In both scenarios your visibility is reduced and your risks for accidents increase. Make sure you slow down and allow plenty of room between you and other travelers to maximize your time to react to any dangers.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a traffic accident, contact Richard Ansara at 954 761-3641 or toll-free at 877-277-3780 for a free and confidential consultation to discuss your case.
More Blog Entries:
Traffic and Roadwork on A1A Increasing Pedestrian Accident Risks, Broward Injury Lawyer Blog, February 24, 2013
Drivers at Fault in Most Bicycle Accidents, Broward Injury Lawyer Blog, January 31, 2013
