In Louisiana and across the nation, people are returning to some sense of normalcy with increased holiday travel. While it may be a positive that people will again be spending time with family and friends, that does not alter the reality that more vehicles on the road can increase the risk of a crash. Combining the number of drivers on the road with risky behaviors like distraction, drunkenness, drowsiness and recklessness and the pieces are in place for the spike in road fatalities. Those who are heading out should be aware of the numbers and the dangers they may face.
Fatal accidents on Louisiana roads are rising to a worrisome degree
Recently, the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) discussed the number of fatal accidents in the state over Thanksgiving weekend while expressing concern about the statistics from 2020 and 2021. There were 15 accidents and 20 deaths over the just passed Thanksgiving holiday weekend. This was the worst in the state during Thanksgiving since 2014. This coincides with the number of road deaths for 2021 already surpassing the total for all of 2020. Thus far, there have been 896 deaths in 2021. In 2020, there were 828 which was the highest number of road fatalities in 12 years.
What makes this even more problematic is that the number of accidents overall has reduced dramatically. In 2020, Louisiana had the fewest accidents in which people were injured since such records were maintained. That goes back to 1988. A part of the reduction in accidents is believed to be due to fewer drivers taking to the road for work, school and personal trips due to the ongoing health situation. The severity was worse because drivers were speeding, driving aggressively, driving distracted and committing other violations due to emptier roadways and less law enforcement. For pedestrians, fatalities rose by 19%; motorcycle accidents by 6%; and bicycle fatalities by 54%.
After an auto accident, there are many issues to consider
When taking to the road, there is always a chance for an auto accident. With these numbers, a troubling trend is in progress that is leading to worse crashes in Louisiana. Regardless of the circumstances, the aftermath of car accidents will have a litany of challenges to navigate. That includes medical expenses in the present and future; lost earnings; the possibility that a person will suffer from permanent damage; and pain and suffering. Having advice to assess the case and determine a path forward is imperative whether there were injuries or a fatality. Consulting with experienced professionals can provide guidance with the available options.