Deadly car accidents rise in Connecticut in 2022
An alarming statistic in Connecticut: On average in 2022, someone died every day in a car accident. It was the first time Connecticut recorded an average of more than one traffic fatality each day in a year.
CT Mirror reports there was a rising number of fatal accidents involving impaired drivers in 2022. Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs accounted for 19 percent of the total number of traffic deaths. The number represents a 13.4 percent increase from 2015.
While the increase in fatal drunk and drugged driving accidents is certainly grim news, one hopeful note is that the total number of car crashes in Connecticut was lower in 2022 than in pre-pandemic years. CT Mirror cited data from the Connecticut Transportation Safety Research Center at the University of Connecticut.
What causes fatal car accidents?
Not as many drivers are getting into accidents in Connecticut as in recent years, but the crashes that happen tend to be deadlier. CT Mirror reports the following factors that lead to fatal traffic accidents:
- DUI crashes: Despite awareness of the dangers of drunk driving, some people still make the reckless choice to get behind the wheel after drinking or taking drugs. Drunk drivers have slow reaction times. They might speed, drive aggressively, fail to obey traffic signals, or fall asleep at the wheel.
- Wrong-way car accidents: Sometimes, drivers who are under the influence will travel the wrong way on a highway or one-way street, which could lead to a fatal head-on collision.
- Distractions: There are many forms of distractions. Using cell phones to text or check the internet or social media behind the wheel is common. Other common distracted driving behaviors include eating while driving, talking to other passengers, or gazing at people or objects along the road.
Car accidents can have severe consequences
Accidents can lead to serious injuries that can upend your life. Some of the most serious injuries include traumatic brain injury or spinal cord damage. Victims with such catastrophic injuries may need lifelong treatment and accommodations. The cost can be astronomical.
Fatal car accidents can also have a significant impact on loved ones. A victim who died in a car accident might have been the main breadwinner in a household. An experienced attorney knows there is an emotional and financial toll after a fatal car accident.
How a car accident lawyer can help
With a Connecticut lawyer on your side, you will have someone who can advocate on your behalf. Accidents, especially those involving injuries and fatalities, can lead to complex insurance claims. The insurance company may offer a settlement that doesn’t fairly cover the losses. The driver and their insurance company may dispute who was at fault.
Your attorney can help build a case with evidence. At the Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone & Morelli, we take an aggressive stance to reveal the truth. We will comb through accident reports. We can obtain witness statements. If needed, we will file a personal injury lawsuit on your behalf.
Our law firm has handled all types of fatal car accidents in Connecticut. Our record of results speaks for itself. Don’t hesitate to contact the Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone & Morelli if you or a loved one was injured in an accident. Your consultation is free. We don’t get paid unless we win. There is no obligation when you contact us. Find out how we can help. Tell them you mean business.