The National Safety Council expresses concern about the numbers of crash fatalities nationwide, including North Carolina, despite advanced technology and improvements in traffic safety. Even though auto manufacturers add more advanced safety features to each new model, motor vehicle accidents continue to occur. The conclusion is that driver errors play a significant role in the ever-increasing fatality rate.
According to the NSC, approximately 100 lives are lost every day in auto crashes that occur every five seconds. Safety authorities say exceeding the speed limit or driving faster than road and weather conditions allow increases the fatality risk. The higher the speed at which a crash occurs, the lower the chances of survival.
Reportedly, distraction and impairment make up the other two primary causes of fatal accidents. Infotainment features in vehicles along with smartphones could cause drivers not to see pedestrians, red lights and emergencies such as traffic coming to an unanticipated halt. The NSC says mental and visual functions and motor skills of drivers are impaired by alcohol, drugs, medication and fatigue — causing 10,000 deaths each year.
Sadly, many deaths result from the negligence of other drivers. Families in North Carolina who have to cope with losing loved ones in motor vehicle accidents will likely have to deal with emotional and financial hardship. Help is available through the civil justice system of the state. This is a complicated field of the law, and an attorney who is experienced in dealing with personal injury and wrongful death lawsuits can provide support and guidance along every step of the way.
