A recent article by Bloomberg saw fatal accidents increase 14.4% in the past two years. This in spite of the fact the average American has only increased annual mileage by 2.2% over that same period of time. It is interesting to note the number of fatal motor vehicle accidents attributed to DUI or speeding has not significantly moved. If this is the case, the question becomes:
“What factors are contributing to the increased number of fatal accidents across the country?”
The Insurance Institute of America notes more than 85% of American drivers have a smart phone, and accidents attributed to cell phone use and distracted driving have substantially increased. California mandates the use of hands-free technology to ensure safer conditions when drivers receive a call on the road. However, the disruption of mental focus during a phone call as well as the use of our cell phones to monitor social media and send texts and emails to our friends, family and work relationships distract our eyes from the road for 5 seconds, or longer.
The article notes instances of pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcyclists are a contributing factor of why we saw fatal accidents increase 14.4% in the past two years. The number of pedestrian deaths alone have risen by more than 22% in the past two years of the study. These people and objects are much smaller than a motor vehicle and are easy to miss as the actual area of focus reduces to the point directly in front of us when we are involved in a conversation. Accidents involving these lesser protected groups often result in more serious injuries and/or loss of life. The weight of a motor vehicle and the force associated with the momentum of a vehicle during an accident are no match for these groups with which we share the road.
The significant increase in fatal accidents seems to be significantly related more to distracted driving and cell phone use. It is best to silence your cell phone and place it out of reach when you are preparing to drive. The injuries and wrongful death which can result from a short distraction are not worth any interruption or communication. If a call or communication is urgent, consider pulling over to a save spot before communicating with a cell phone.
If you or someone you love has been injured or lost their life in a car, truck, motorcycle or pedestrian accident we invite you to review the recommendations of our clients and the legal industry and contact the Law Firm of Rivers J. Morrell or call 949-305-1400 to speak directly with an experienced personal injury attorney for a free consultation.
