NHTSA Shows Increase in Traffic Deaths During 2016

Traffic fatalities increased by nearly eight percent during the first nine months of 2016, compared to the same period during the previous year, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

The NHTSA report estimates there were 27,875 deaths within the first nine months of 2016, compared to 25,808 fatalities reported during the first three quarters of 2015.

The report also indicates that the number of vehicle miles traveled within the first nine months of 2016 increased by an estimated 70 billion miles, or three percent, compared to the previous year. The 2016 fatality rate also increased to 1.15 per 100 million vehicle miles traveled from 1.10 in 2015.

Traffic fatality rates have been rising since 2014, which has alarmed the NHTSA and traffic safety experts. The increase is especially troubling given the vast improvements in safety features and accident-prevention technology that has been incorporated into new vehicles in recent years.

NHTSA officials largely attribute the increasing rate of traffic fatalities to the growing number of drivers in the U.S. — a result of improved economic conditions that allow driving to be an affordable travel option.

However, traffic deaths outpaced the increase in vehicle miles traveled. Dangerous driving behaviors, such as distracted, impaired or drowsy driving, have caused concern with NHTSA and safety officials who have also listed these issues as having contributed to the fatality rate.

It is important for all drivers to be aware of their actions while operating a vehicle. If you were injured or lost a loved one to a negligent driver, contact the Sacramento auto accident attorneys at the Arnold Law Firm. We help accident victims by providing a free consultation. Our Sacramento personal injury attorneys only charge for our services if we help you receive compensation. 

Call (916) 777-7777 to schedule a free, no obligation consultation with our attorneys.