Distracted Drivers to Blame
Pedestrian deaths rose by 10% in 2015, according to the Governors’ Association for Highway Safety. Plus, the nationwide rise coincides with a rise in local pedestrian deaths. Auto accidents with pedestrians are up in DC, Montgomery and Prince George’s County.
Driver Error
Motor vehicle driver error continues to be the leading cause of automobile collisions, accounting for 92% of all fatal car crashes. Texting, surfing the internet, tweeting and general inattention to the road are fueling an increase in pedestrian deaths. Alcohol use, road rage, prescription medications like Ambien, continue to be major contributors to driver error resulting in fatalities and serious personal injury.
With the advent of safer cars, only 2% of collisions are caused by mechanical defects, according to a report from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Cars are Safer, Drivers are Not
In the Washington D.C., fatal vehicle-to-vehicle collisions were down in 2015, but pedestrian fatalities were way up.
Serious personal injuries to bicyclists also rose in DC, Maryland & Virginia for the 3rd year in a row. In addition, lower gas prices are adding to the number of vehicles. Maryland drivers use electronic devices like never before.
Ridesharing Apps Have Issues Too
Issues concerning Metrorail, Amtrak and Streetcar safety has also moved to the front. Riders report personal safety issues on Uber, Lyft and other ride sharing apps.
In conclusion, Safe travel is a right. Pedestrians, cyclists, motorists, Metro riders and Uber users expect to get to their destination safety.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a transportation-related safety issue, call the skilled Washington DC personal injury lawyers at Zukerberg & Halperin, PLLC today. We bring compassion and experience to every case.