Fatal Car Accidents in Michigan Are Increasing
According to a recent report from the Michigan State Police, the number of fatal car crashes so far in 2021 is substantially higher than at this point in 2020, with a 34 percent increase as of May. The number of accidents resulting in serious injuries has also grown significantly, up 27 percent from 2020. Given these troubling trends, it is more important now than ever that you know what to do if you or a loved one has been the victim of a serious accident.
What Is Causing More Fatal Accidents?
Michigan law enforcement officers have offered their thoughts on several possible reasons for the rise of fatal traffic accidents. One factor that is likely at play is an overall increase in vehicle traffic associated with the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions as the number of cases continues to drop and the number of vaccinated people continues to increase. However, there seem to be other contributing factors as well.
For example, officers note a continuing trend of drivers traveling at higher speeds, which began last year during the pandemic when there were fewer people on the roads. Speeding is a well-known risk factor in serious accidents, contributing to more than 25 percent of all traffic fatalities in 2018 according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Traveling at high speeds makes it more difficult for a driver to control the vehicle and react to dangers on the road, especially during periods of greater traffic. Collisions at high speed also tend to result in more severe injuries.
Another possible factor is an increase in the number of road construction zones as the year has progressed. Speeding in a work zone is even more dangerous than in regular driving conditions, and distracted driving is also a major problem. Fatal accident victims in work zone crashes include not only drivers and passengers, but also pedestrian workers.
Wrongful Death Compensation in Michigan
While Michigan’s no-fault auto insurance often covers some damages for injury victims, a fatal accident case often involves damages that are not covered. As such, the best way for surviving family members to recover full compensation is usually to file a wrongful death claim against the party who is responsible for the accident. Your attorney can help you understand all of the damages you may be entitled to after the loss of your loved one, including excessive medical expenses, pain and suffering, loss of income and financial support, grief and loss of companionship, and funeral and burial expenses.
Contact a Grand Rapids Wrongful Death Attorney
If your family has been affected by a fatal car accident, Attorney John D. Tallman can work with you to recover the compensation you deserve. Call our office today at 616-361-8850 to schedule a free consultation with our Grand Rapids, MI personal injury lawyer.
Sources:
https://wwmt.com/news/local/fatal-crashes-in-michigan-up-34-across-the-state
https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/speeding
https://www.michigan.gov/workzonesafety/0,9411,7-390-91955---,00.html
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