Traffic wrecks are a leading cause of fatalities in the United States. Surviving family members are often shocked to receive a phone call from the police reporting that a loved one passed in an accident. After the initial shock, many people sink into a depression and are unsure of what to do. If you have lost a family member, call The Harris Firm today for help with your case.
The Number of Fatalities Varies by Year (But Are Increasing!)
Consumer Reports tracked the number of car accident fatalities in the United States from 2012 to 2022. The numbers varied from a low of 32,744 in 2014 to a high of 42,939 in 2021.
Of course, as the nation’s population increases, the number of people on the road will increase, as well. That means we shouldn’t be too shocked to see the number of accidents go up. Still, any increase is upsetting.
Consumer Reports also found that Alabama had one of the highest fatality rates by comparing the number of fatal accidents in the state to our total population. In fact, Alabama had the 7th highest rate in the nation. Other Southern states, like Mississippi, were also at the top of the list.
Alabama Saw 986 Fatalities in 2022
The Department of Transportation collects crash data and publishes it each year. The most recent data is from 2022 which shoes:
- 906 fatal accidents in the state
- 986 people killed in accidents
- 67 fatalities associated with distracted driving
- A 0.31% increase in the number of fatalities over the previous year
Many more people are injured in accidents than killed. In fact, for each fatality there were about 38 injuries.
You Might Have a Right to Financial Compensation
Alabama recognizes a limited right to file a wrongful death claim after a loved one’s death. In other states, survivors can seek compensatory damages, such as money for lost income and pain and suffering. Alabama has taken a different approach. You can seek punitive damages against the defendant for the death. In other words, Alabama wrongful death cases are focused on the wrongfulness of the defendant’s conduct.
We might file a wrongful death on behalf of the estate if the defendant intentionally hit your loved one, such as in an episode of road rage, or if the driver was drunk. There are other situations where we can punish the defendant for their actions. Call us to find out more about whether you can seek financial compensation.
Call for a Free Consultation with Our Firm Today!
After a wreck, you might think the world is spinning. It is critical to obtain the best legal help available. The right attorney can negotiate a settlement for your injuries or the death of a loved one. You have one chance to get the maximum financial compensation available under Alabama law. The right Birmingham car accident lawyer can make the difference. Reach out to our firm by calling (205) 578-6470 to schedule a meeting with a member of our legal team.