Car accidents happen with frequency in Florida, as no year passes without road fatalities. Tragically, 2021 stands as one of the deadliest years in recent memory. Several factors contributed to the increased incidents, with many common causes repeating themselves. However, some aspects made 2021 different from other years. Regardless, any accident caused by someone’s negligence may result in a lawsuit.
2021 and the deadly vehicle collisions
The number of people killed in vehicle collisions neared 43,000 by 2021’s end. 2020 saw fewer drivers on roads nationwide, and the volume of commuters increased substantially when 2022 arrived. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reveals that 2021’s death toll presented a 10.5% increase from 2020. That percentage reflects the most significant growth since 1975, the first year the NHTSA compiled a system of fatality stats.
The people killed in vehicle crashes in 2021 fell victim to many of the same reasons for traffic crashes in previous years, such as speeding and intoxicated driving. Perhaps the situation with fewer drivers on the road in 2020 led to an increase in drivers committing moving violations and other acts of negligence.
Negligence and motor vehicle collisions
Speeding, tailgating, and other moving violations increase the chances of motor vehicle accidents. When a driver goes too fast, it becomes difficult to react in time to avoid some collisions. Other actions, including unsafe lane changes or driving on the shoulder, may dramatically increase the chances of an accident.
While driving under the influence might seem more serious than speeding, all dangerous driving practices put people’s lives in danger. The liable party could face a serious personal injury lawsuit when someone suffers an injury or dies after an at-fault collision.