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A recent report states that fatal car accidents are on the rise throughout the United States

According to a recent report, car crashes are on the rise in the United States. The study responsible for these findings was conducted by the National Safety Council, a nonprofit that aims to reduce the risk of injuries and deaths through research, education and advocacy efforts. The group found that fatal accidents had increased throughout the country by 14 percent. The Wall Street Journal discussed this report, noting auto and insurance executives point to two main causes for the increase: more drivers on the roadways and distracted driving.

Causes of car crashes: More drivers on the roadways

The article touched on an interview with a chief executive with Allstate, who stated that the cause of the increase is likely connected to an increase in the number of cars on the roads. With more people on the roads, he argued, more accidents are going to happen. This theory is supported by data from the Federal Highway Administration, stating travel on the nation’s roadways reached a record high in June of 1.54 trillion miles.

This increase is speculated to be directly connected to a decrease in gas prices along with an increase in employment rates as well as an increase in the overall population.

Causes of car crashes: Distracted driving

Other executives are voicing concerns that the role of Smartphones in these accidents is being underplayed. Warren Buffet, chief executive at Berkshire Hathaway which owns Geico, a large car insurance provider, is one executive voicing these concerns. The article notes Mr. Buffet recently stated that if “cars are better – and clearly they are – drivers must be worse (adjusted for mileage).”

Legislatures in Pennsylvania seem to agree with Mr. Buffet’s stance in that they have taken distracted driving practices seriously. The state has outlawed as a primary offense, meaning an officer can pull a vehicle over simply for violating this law – no other potential violation is required – the use of an Interactive Wireless Communication Device (IWCD) such as Smartphones, to send, read or write texts while driving. This law has been in place since 2012.

Car crash speculation and the impact in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania’s Department of Transportation reports that there were 13,964 car accidents in the state attributable to distracted driving practices. Those who are injured in this type of accident are likely eligible to receive compensation to help cover the costs associated with the crash. This can include property damage to a vehicle, medical and rehabilitative expenses if there was an injury and lost wages if the accident resulted in missed work. Contact an experienced motor vehicle accident attorney to discuss your legal options and better ensure a more favorable outcome.