According to a report issued by CCI Intelligent Solutions, there are signs that motor vehicle accidents in the United States have increased in severity in recent years. In addition, the report indicates that more vehicles were reported as inoperable in 2022 compared to 2019 and 2020. The report pointed to several reasons this trend was taking place on Texas roadways and others throughout the country.
How vehicles contribute to this trend
Consumers have recently preferred larger and heavier SUVs and pickup trucks. The more a vehicle weighs, the more energy it can create at the point of impact. When a collision occurs, that energy is transferred to smaller passenger vehicles or pedestrians who are struck. The fact that an SUV or truck is taller than a passenger vehicle may be hazardous in pedestrian accidents. This is because a person may be hit in the chest and suffer serious injuries that lead to death.
How drivers contribute to this trend
The rise of smartphones and infotainment systems has resulted in a rise in distracted driving. Drivers who are distracted may fail to slow down or take other evasive actions before a crash, which may increase the intensity of a wreck.
Motorists who are distracted, fatigued or impaired may also be more likely to drive at excessive speeds or make unsafe lane changes. These factors may also create conditions favorable for a serious crash.
Although older drivers tend to have fewer accidents, they tend to be more vulnerable to severe injuries. This is because older motorists may have lower bone density or suffer from other conditions that can be exacerbated after even a minor motor vehicle accident.
After a motor vehicle wreck, you may have grounds to file a lawsuit against other parties involved in the incident. Photos from the crash scene, video footage and other evidence may be used to prove that another party’s negligence resulted in a financial loss. You typically have two years from the date of the crash to pursue litigation.