While the number of car accidents in Connecticut has decreased over the past year, fatal accidents are still as frequent as ever. In fact, new research has shown that the number of fatal car accidents has actually increased. This suggests that reduced traffic doesn’t necessarily lead to fewer fatalities.
What are the statistics for car accidents in Connecticut?
In previous years, the state of Connecticut reported an average of 90,000 motor vehicle accidents per year. Between January and October 2020, the state had already logged over 60,000 motor vehicle accidents. Out of these accidents, nearly 200 resulted in fatalities. Researchers noted that hospitals in the state had noticed an influx of car accident victims.
With fewer people on the road, it might seem safe to assume that the number of car accidents would decrease. Unfortunately, these findings suggest that seeing fewer vehicles on the road makes people more likely to speed and engage in other dangerous driving behaviors. In fact, the number of car accidents quadrupled during certain periods in 2020.
The study also revealed that 1 in 24 drivers admitted to driving 75 miles per hour or faster on the highway. To make matters worse, other studies have shown that drug and alcohol use increased during 2020. Experts fear that more people might be driving under the influence, but these experts don’t have any current research to support that hypothesis. In any case, it’s clear that the roadways became less safe in 2020.
What should you do if you get into a car accident?
A car accident can range from a minor fender-bender to a severe wreck that leaves you and your passengers with life-threatening injuries. Unfortunately, many insurance companies are hesitant to pay out the maximum amount of compensation. An attorney may help you negotiate with the insurance company so that you can start rebuilding your finances.