Auto accidents on the rise in Utah and across the U.S.

Auto accidents are a common cause for unexpected injuries and fatalities in Utah and throughout the United States. There are many catalysts for a crash including speeding, reckless driving, negligence, distracted driving, drivers who are under the influence and drowsy driving. Federal and local governments track these collisions to determine how and why they happen. The most recent statistics show worrisome signs nationally and in Utah. Drivers, motorcyclists, bicyclists and pedestrians should be aware of this when they head out on the road, especially during the holiday season.

Numbers indicate spike in accidents and fatalities

For the first six months of 2021, the U.S. Department of Transportation said there were more than 20,000 road fatalities in the U.S. Its counterpart in Utah (UDOT) said in June there had been 130 deaths for the year. A representative for the UDOT said the rate of fatalities in the state is the worst it has been in more than a decade. Researchers point to the recent national crisis as a precursor to road dangers. More drivers are flouting the law, taking advantage of less traffic and behaving in an overall dangerous way.

Law enforcement is providing anecdotal evidence of the increased risk. Two hit-and-run accidents were mentioned. In one, an elderly woman was hit by a vehicle that fled the scene. She later died. In another, an SUV hit an 8-year-old boy as he rode his bicycle. Fortunately, he survived. Zero Fatalities, an organization whose stated goal is to eliminate road fatalities, reported there were 41 bicyclists who suffered serious injuries and 32 pedestrian deaths in motor vehicle crashes.

Confronting the long-term consequences of an accident may require assistance

People who are simply going about their daily routines can suddenly find themselves with serious injuries and worse due to motor vehicle accidents. This is true regardless of how vigilant and safety-conscious they are. Heading out to go to work, school, on errands or simply to get some exercise can end with a trip to the hospital due to driver mistakes or misbehavior. Those who were injured or lost a loved one in an accident will have many concerns. That includes dealing with insurance companies, assessing the case, calculating future costs and more. Having guidance from those who provide personalized attention and are experienced can be helpful. This should be known from the start to take the necessary steps to move forward with a case.