Car Accidents in California
California is the most populous state in the nation, and per capita, has more vehicles in operation at any given time than other states in the nation. Since more vehicles are in use, the state also some of the highest incidences of motor vehicle accidents and traffic-related fatalities in America.
Per the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) report, statistics show that California drivers suffered approximately 3,974 traffic-related fatalities in 2007 alone. Hit and run accidents were more than double the national average for that year. In addition, California has a high rate of uninsured and unlicensed drivers that have been linked to many of the hit and run collisions. Although California has strict laws regarding uninsured or unlicensed drivers, the rate of uninsured and unlicensed drivers, as well as hit and run accidents, still remains high today.
Another troubling statistic is the rate of alcohol-related accidents and fatalities within the state. In 2006 alone, 1,779 traffic-related deaths involved alcohol; the highest number in the nation. Unfortunately, according to the NHTSA, this trend is not declining.California traffic safety experts believe that as the state’s population grows, so will alcohol-related traffic accidents and fatalities. Most alcohol-related accidents occur in urban areas of California than in rural areas. It is also believed that for citizens under 34 in the state, that car accidents are the leading cause of death.
Meanwhile, thousands of victims in California motor vehicles suffer severe physical and mental injuries, ranging from broken bones, fractures, burns, sprains, memory loss, spinal cord injuries, and more. The only recourse these victims typically have in order to recover damages is to file a civil lawsuit.
If you’ve been a victim of a car accident, it’s imperative to seek the assistance of an experienced car accident lawyer. You may be entitled to recover damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, future medical care costs, and more. At Ledger & Associates, our leading car accident attorneys have helped countless clients win their lawsuits and recover maximum financial damages.
Sources: http://www-nrd.nhtsa.dot.gov/Pubs/811059.PDF
http://www-nrd.nhtsa.dot.gov/Pubs/810801.PDF
