Factors like speeding and drunk driving have contributed to the increase in fatal car accidents.
Car accident fatalities in Indiana have seen a concerning increase in recent years, as revealed by a comprehensive study conducted by TRIP, a nationally recognized transportation research nonprofit organization.
The alarming rise in fatalities is particularly troubling for drivers and other Indianapolis road users, who may face a higher risk. According to a report by WRTV Indianapolis News, this surge in fatal accidents has coincided with a decrease in the enforcement of traffic laws by officers in the state's largest city.
If you're wondering about the exact number of car accident fatalities in Indiana, the factors contributing to this increase, or the prevalence of fatal car accidents in Indianapolis, you've come to the right place. Our team of experienced Indiana car accident attorneys at Glaser & Ebbs, Attorneys At Law, has the information you need to address these questions and gain a better understanding of the situation.
Car accident fatalities on the rise in Indiana
Based on data from the recent TRIP study referenced by WRTV News, the number of car accident-related deaths in Indiana surged by 18 percent over just three years, from 809 fatalities in 2019 to a staggering 955 fatalities in 2022.
What's particularly troubling about this study is that it reveals this spike in fatalities occurred even during years when fewer drivers were on the road due to the pandemic in 2020 and 2021. Furthermore, in 2022, when there were roughly the same number of drivers on the road as in 2019, the state experienced an even higher number of fatal car accidents.
The role of negligence in car accidents
Traffic safety researchers from TRIP and other organizations have been investigating the alarming rise in car accident fatalities in Indiana over the past few years. Their findings suggest that a combination of factors is contributing to this troubling trend. In particular, "TRIP researchers have pointed to risky driving behaviors such as not wearing seat belts, driving under the influence of alcohol, and speeding," as reported by WRTV News.
The notable increase in speeding-related car accident fatalities in Indiana over the past decade is of significant concern. According to data collected by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), between 2012 and 2021, fatalities resulting from speeding incidents in Indiana surged 36.2 percent. This means that the number of deaths due to speeding rose from 185 fatalities in 2012 to a staggering 252 fatalities in 2021.
Fatal crashes in Indianapolis
Indianapolis has also experienced a surge in car accident fatalities in recent years, mirroring the statewide trend. Between 2017 and 2021, the number of car accident deaths in Marion County, which encompasses Indianapolis, saw a troubling increase of 46 percent. The fatalities rose from 102 deaths in 2017 to a concerning 149 deaths in 2021, as per data from the NHTSA.
This spike in car accident fatalities in Marion County, Indiana, can be attributed to several factors. Notably, the number of fatalities resulting from speeding-related car accidents surged by 155 percent between 2017 and 2021. Additionally, drunk driving fatalities increased by 77 percent during the same time frame. These statistics contribute to the higher incidence of car accident deaths in Indianapolis.
Another potential contributing factor is the reduced presence of Indianapolis police officers on the road. According to Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department Assistant Chief Chris Bailey, "Our traffic unit isn't as robust as it once was." He cited the city's hosting of major events as one reason, with the traffic unit dedicating considerable time to managing pedestrian and vehicle flow to and from venues such as Lucas Oil Stadium, Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Victory Field, and the Convention Center.
The financial toll of motor vehicle collisions
The TRIP accident study also delved into the financial repercussions of car accidents. According to traffic safety experts at TRIP, "fatal and serious traffic crashes in Indiana in 2022 caused a total of $47 billion in the value of societal harm, which includes $12 billion in economic costs and $35 billion in quality-of-life costs" as outlined in the Indiana TRIP study.
While these statistics provide valuable insights, it's essential to recognize that each car accident case is unique. Consequently, the financial impact of your specific accident can vary widely, ranging from a few thousand dollars to significantly more. The fundamental principle is that you deserve financial compensation to cover all expenses arising from your accident, including:
- Medical Treatments: This includes expenses for emergency medical care and any future medical treatments required for injuries sustained in the car accident.
- Replacement Income: If you need time off work to recuperate from your accident, compensation should cover the income you miss during this period.
- Lost Future Income: If you or a loved one's ability to work in the future is compromised due to the accident, compensation should account for this potential loss of income.
- Survivor Benefits: In the tragic event of a fatal car accident, compensation should be extended to providing survivor benefits for family members who have lost a loved one.
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident in Indiana
Car accidents are an unfortunate reality on our roads, and their consequences can be life-altering. Whether you're dealing with medical bills, lost income, or the tragic death of a loved one, it's crucial to remember that you don't have to face these challenges alone.
Seeking legal representation from an experienced Indiana car accident attorney can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. At Glaser & Ebbs, Attorneys At Law, we are dedicated to advocating for your rights and ensuring that justice is served. Contact us today to learn more about your potential legal options. We will fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.