Between 2019 and 2020, there was an increase in fatal accidents in the United States, as it went up by 7%. Between 2020 and 2021, the same thing happened, but it was even more drastic: 10%. It now appears that the same thing is happening in 2022, though the exact degree of the increase has yet to be announced.In any case, these stats show that driving is getting to be more dangerous. This surprises some people, largely because cars themselves have been getting safer. A vehicle that you buy today is going to have all sorts of safety devices, such as crumple zones, airbags, lane departure warning systems, backup cameras and much more. These systems are designed to prevent accidents or reduce the likelihood of death, so why aren’t they working?
The rise in risky driving
The problem is simply the way that people are driving. Risky behaviors like drunk driving, aggressive driving, speeding and driving without a seatbelt have all become more common in recent years. These things are so dangerous that they negate any of the gains made by improving technology. You could have a brand new car and still not be safe if you engage in these risky driving behaviors.Unfortunately, you’re also at risk simply because you have to share the road with other drivers who are going to operate their vehicles this way. This is why rising fatalities stats – or just rising crash stats in general – impact everyone. You don’t have to be a dangerous driver to be involved in a crash if someone else hits your vehicle.Those who have been injured in these accidents need to know how to seek financial compensation from those responsible.