This article discusses motor vehicle traffic accident deaths and injuries.

Auto accidents are the leading cause of injury and death here in the U.S. More than 35,000 people died in motor vehicle traffic accidents in 2014 according to the CDC. 

That means about 90 people die EACH DAY from motor vehicle traffic accident. According to the CDC, that gives the U.S. the highest death rate from auto accidents among comparison countries (comparison countries include: Canada, Australia, and the UK).

Most Common Injuries (If not Fatal)?

• Whiplash and neck injuries
• Head trauma injuries
• Back pain and herniated disks
• Muscle weakness or numbness
• Sharp leg pain and ligament damage
• Spinal damage
• Broken bones
• Emotional distress

Who’s Liable?

Liability depends on the particular circumstances of a case and the laws of the state that the case occurred in. It’s best to consult an attorney for advice regarding your specific claim. However, here are some examples of fault:

Negligence – One driver causes a crash because they were acting negligently or driving carelessly. An example of negligence is speeding.

Reckless driving – When a driver willfully acts in a way that disregards public safety.

Product Defects – If the motor vehicle had parts or components that contained an “unreasonably dangerous” defect, the dealer or manufacture did not warn you, and that motor vehicle caused you injury or harm while using it, then the dealer or manufacturer of the product may be liable.

Auto Accident Injury Avoidance?

• Using a seat belt will reduce the risk of injury and death by half (CDC) 
• Using the right size child seat or booster seat will also reduce the risk of injury and death by half (CDC)
• Avoid driving while impaired. In 2012 and 2013, more than 10,000 people died in alcohol-impaired auto crashes, according to the NHTSA.
• Other factors that led to increased injuries and deaths include: cell phone use while driving, driving when tired, and speeding.

Were you or someone you love injured in a motor vehicle traffic accident? Contact a personal injury attorney today.