There’s been a dramatic uptick in the number of fatal motor vehicle accidents throughout the state of Missouri – and officials are scrambling to understand why.
The latest report out of the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicates that some 9,560 people have been killed in wrecks throughout the nation in 2022, which is already an increase of 7% over the same period in 2021. However, the fatalities associated with motor vehicle crashes in Missouri have climbed by nearly 10% in that time.
What’s causing the increase in fatal wrecks?
There’s no easy answer to this question, but Missouri isn’t the only state having a problem. Other reports indicate that this tragic trend is a national problem, with each of the last two years seeing similar spikes. Overall, roadway fatalities in 2022 are about 18% higher than they were in 2019.
In general, authorities are blaming a number of different social factors that are coming into play:
- Distracted driving is a massive problem everywhere people go. Smartphones are certainly part of the problem, but so are all the gadgets and gizmos being installed in newer vehicles.
- Reckless driving seems to have increased all over. Whether it’s related to the unique stressors of the last few years or something else, people seem to be more impatient on the road than ever – and more willing to take chances with excessive speeds, lane changes and other dangerous behaviors.
- Pedestrians are increasingly vulnerable. It’s becoming obvious that many urban areas aren’t built with pedestrians in mind. As people seek to economize by walking more, they’re putting themselves into danger from all those distracted drivers out there.
- Vehicles are bigger, heavier and more deadly. The average weight, height and horsepower of the vehicles being driven has risen steadily over the last few decades. Heavier, larger vehicles are bound to do more damage in a wreck than a little two-door sedan.
If you’ve been seriously injured in a wreck or a loved one was killed, find out more about your options for financial compensation. While it won’t restore everything that was lost, fair compensation after a wreck can help keep your family financially secure.
