There has always been an unfortunate reality in the world that bad things happen to good people. When such atrocities happen, it’s never easy to answers to the “why” questions that follow difficult circumstances or tragedy. Many people simply have to struggle through their situation and hope things will turn around for the better.
There are certain situations, however, where bad things happen to good people as a result of someone else’s negligence. According to personal injury attorneys at DePaolo & Zadeikis, “Unfortunately we live in a time where negligence is easier to find on the streets than a newspaper.”
Auto Accident Injuries on the Rise
If it seems these types of scenarios are on the rise, it’s because they are, especially when it comes to auto accident injuries. According to the latest statistics, about 700, 000 personal injury cases get filed on an annual basis. Of all the different types of personal injury claims, which includes slips and falls, medical malpractice, work-related injuries, and defective products, auto accident injuries are becoming increasingly commonplace.
In 2012, the CDC reported that 2.5 million Americans sought treatment in the emergency room following an auto accident. In 2016, this number increased to 2.6 million Americans. With all of the safety features that new car manufacturers are coming out with, along with increased awareness about distracted driving, it would seem this number would decrease. But that has not been the case.
Besides the numbers of auto-related injuries on the rise, the number of deaths has increased as well. Some experts say that thanks to cheap gas prices and a stronger economy, these increased numbers are due to the fact there are more cars than ever on the road, and more miles are being driven.
Another reason for the increased number of auto accidents is that there are more distractions while driving. One group of people in particular, the millennials, are especially bad about distracted driving. Some of their worst driving habits include texting while driving, running red lights, and speeding in school zones and on residential streets.
While whiplash, bone fractures, and concussions are some of the most common auto accident injuries, some people also receive spinal and soft tissue injuries. These are traumatizing injuries that can take a long time to heal. If drivers on the road continue to be careless or negligent, these types of auto accident injuries will only continue to increase.
