Are Traffic Deaths Rising in Connecticut?
Every day, thousands of people take to the roads in Connecticut, engaging in a seemingly ordinary activity: driving. It’s a routine part of life for many, but in a split second, lives can be forever altered by a devastating car accident.
Unfortunately, the state of Connecticut has been grappling with a disturbing increase in traffic deaths. These collisions are often caused by the dangerous and negligent actions of drivers, including those who are intoxicated, distracted, and fail to obey traffic laws.
Statistics on Traffic Fatalities in Connecticut
The number of pedestrian deaths in Connecticut has been increasing at an alarming rate. In 2022 alone, there were 75 pedestrian deaths, marking a staggering 50% increase compared to the data from 2017. This figure represents the highest number of pedestrian fatalities the state has witnessed since 1988.
Furthermore, wrong-way driver deaths are also on the rise in Connecticut. These pedestrian and wrong-way deaths have contributed to a total of over 300 fatal crashes in 2022, making it the highest number in more than five years.
Common Causes of Fatal Traffic Accidents
Fatal traffic accidents can occur due to a variety of factors, many of which can be prevented with heightened awareness and responsible driving practices. Understanding these common causes is crucial in developing effective strategies to reduce fatalities on the road.
Some of the primary contributors to fatal traffic accidents include:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Fatigue
- Impaired driving
- Failure to obey the right of way
- Unsafe lane changes
- Driving in the wrong direction
- Aggressive driving
- Poor weather conditions
- Inadequate vehicle maintenance
- Inexperienced drivers
Legal Options for Families of Fatal Car Accident Victims
Losing a loved one in a car accident is a devastating experience. Traffic deaths not only bring emotional turmoil but also financial hardships, as families are often left grappling with funeral expenses, medical bills, and the absence of the deceased’s financial support. In these situations, families deserve justice.
Wrongful death lawsuits are a legal pathway for those seeking to hold negligent drivers accountable for traffic fatalities. These claims provide financial compensation for any damages that the deceased and his or her family experienced as a result of the accident.
Available compensation may include:
- The deceased’s loss of earning capacity
- The medical expenses related to the deceased’s final illness or injury
- Reasonable funeral and burial expenses
- The pain and suffering experienced by the deceased before death
- Loss of consortium, or the loss of society, moral support, affection, and companionship that the deceased would have provided to his or her spouse
In Connecticut, wrongful death lawsuits can only be filed by the executor or administrator of the deceased’s estate. If the deceased didn’t name an executor, the court can appoint one.
Schedule a Consultation with a Connecticut Car Accident Attorney
Traffic deaths have a profound impact on individuals, families, and communities. If you want to file a wrongful death claim after a car accident, seeking legal guidance can provide much-needed support and help you navigate the complexities of the legal system.
A Connecticut car accident attorney can assist you in seeking justice for your loved one’s untimely loss. They can guide you through the process of filing a wrongful death lawsuit, explain your rights, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Schedule a free legal consultation as soon as possible to take your first steps toward justice.