2021 saw a record number of traffic fatalities in the United States. The rise has become so concerning that transportation leaders are calling it a crisis. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, an estimated 31,720 people died in traffic accidents in the first 9 months of 2021, an increase of approximately 12% from the 28,325 fatalities in the first nine months of 2020. This is the highest number of fatalities since 2006.
Illinois fared even worse than the national average, showing an 18.4% increase in traffic fatalities, with 993 people dying in car accidents in the first 9 months of 2021 compared to 839 during the same months in 2020. In total, more than 1350 Illinoisians died in traffic accidents in 2021, the highest number since 2005.
One of the reasons for the increase in fatalities was an 11.7% increase in miles traveled over 2020, as well as declining seatbelt use.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has pledged to help, introducing a new national program aimed at reversing this increase. Over the next two years, his department will provide federal guidance and billions in grants under President Biden’s new infrastructure law to motivate states and cities to embrace safer road design, including dedicated bike and bus lanes, better lighting, safer crosswalks, and reduced speed limits.
The Collins Law Firm is a highly regarded personal injury law firm representing people injured in all kinds of motor vehicle accidents. We have recovered $895 Million Dollars for clients and are recognized as a “Best Law Firm” by U.S. News & World Report. Our experienced, highly-awarded car accident attorneys can help you get the maximum compensation for any injuries suffered in a car crash. If you have lost a loved one or been injured in an auto accident caused by another driver, call us at (630) 527-1595 or fill out our contact form for a FREE evaluation of your car accident claim today.
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