The latest data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the New Jersey State Police shows that 2021 is shaping up to be one of the most dangerous years on record for drivers. The year is not yet over, and we have already seen a dramatic increase in the number of drivers and passengers killed in fatal car accidents. In New Jersey alone, there have been over 19 more traffic accident fatalities this year than last.
Levin & Malkin’s experienced team of car accident attorneys is ready to provide compassionate representation to the families of fatal car accident victims across the state of New Jersey. We know that filing a lawsuit can be an important form of closure in addition to providing the family with the financial support they need to move forward after their loss.
First Half Of The Year Is Deadly For Drivers
The New Jersey State Police track fatal accident data each day. As of the date, this blog post was written, there have been 582 fatal accidents and 606 deaths on New Jersey roadways this year. Looking at the same data from 2020 reveals an alarming increase. Last year there were only 550 fatal accidents, which resulted in 587 deaths, for the whole year.
This increase is not unique to New Jersey. According to the NHTSA, during the first half of 2021, an estimated 20,160 people died in motor vehicle accidents. That’s the highest total for the first six months of the year since 2006, and about 18% higher than the death toll for the first half of 2020 — the biggest percentage increase for that time period since NHTSA began keeping records in 1975.
The NTSA believes the increase in fatalities has to do with the pandemic. The agency previously suspected drivers were taking advantage of the fact that fewer cars were on the road, and really increasing their speed. After more research, the NHTSA now thinks there are a number of factors at play:
“After the declaration of the public health emergency in March 2020, driving patterns and behaviors in the United States changed significantly. Of the drivers who remained on the roads, some engaged in riskier behavior, including speeding, failure to wear seat belts, and driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.”
Unsurprisingly, these are the same factors the Levin & Malkin team often sees in the fatal accident cases we are asked to take on. They serve as evidence showing who was at fault and the severity of an accident.
Millions Won For Our Clients
If you are grieving the loss of a loved one who died in a car accident in New Jersey, the experienced attorneys at Levin & Malkin are here for you. We can help your family hold the reckless driver who caused your loved one’s death accountable and get your family money to help grieve your loss and move forward. If you would like to talk to someone about filing a lawsuit over your loved one’s death, please contact our office to schedule a free consultation.
Posted in: Car Accidents