In Kansas City and across Missouri, road safety has been a primary focus. In recent years, there has been a troubling rise in the number of auto accidents that have occurred. This is causing injuries and fatalities to a wide range of people who use the state roadways.
While there were preconceived notions about the number of accidents and why they happened, recent analysis gives a contrary view. People should be aware of these factors when they head out and especially if they or a loved one is involved in a crash.
The aftermath of the health crisis has not made roads safer, as was expected
Part of the problem with road safety was believed to have been the national health crisis. The lack of traffic and less law enforcement availability to cite drivers for speeding, distracted driving, driving under the influence and general recklessness were believed to have been the catalysts for more accidents. The belief was that once society returned to some semblance of normalcy, the numbers would decrease.
Unfortunately, that has not been the case. In truth, the Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety shows that there were more road deaths in Missouri in 2022 than there were three years earlier. There are several factors being mentioned as to why this is the case.
First, people are still driving while distracted despite entreaties not to do so and greater vigilance on preventing the practice. For example, drivers under 21 cannot use a handheld device, nor can they send messages. Laws aside, it happens regularly with drivers young and old and is a major cause of collisions. In the past five years, there have been 382 known fatalities due to distracted driving.
Other concerns are drivers who are speeding or ignoring inclement weather when they drive. Icy and wet roads cause more accidents. If they happen on a highway, there is a higher chance of serious injuries and death.
After an auto accident, people should know where to go for legal advice
Auto accidents happen without warning and can cause countless changes to a person and their family. Whether it is a driver, passenger, bicyclist, motorcyclist or a pedestrian, the aftereffects of a crash can be personally and financially costly.
People are often just going about their normal routines when accidents occur. Having legal advice from an attorney who cares about people’s future, understands the area and will see a case through to the end can be the difference in a successful outcome. Consulting with experienced professionals is vital from the start when considering how to move forward after an accident.