With more people staying at home these days both to work and do their other activities, one would think that driving has gotten safer in recent months.
Unfortunately, this is not as true as one might think.
Fewer people driving has meant, for the most part, fewer traffic deaths overall. For instance, last March, the number of deaths on the roads across the country dropped by 8% when compared with 2019.
However, the number of miles people drove in March 2020, when compared with 2019, dropped 18%.
Overall, mile per mile, the rate of traffic fatalities increased by 14%, meaning that drivers are getting into fatal accidents more frequently even if they have less opportunities to do so.
Experts did not give a specific explanation for these numbers, although they did say that people were possibly driving more carelessly over the recent months.
Locally, in Connecticut, the first 3 months of 2020 were particularly tough months on the roads. The accident fatality rate spiked in this state during this time.
These statistics should serve as a warning to local drivers that now is not the time for people to get complacent about traffic safety.
Even though fewer cars may be on the road, it is still extremely important for drivers to remember to pay attention to the road at all times and to follow the traffic laws, especially those pertaining to speed. Of course, drivers should avoid operate while tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol or medicine.
The families of those who are killed in an automobile accident during this time may have the option of seeking compensation for their losses through a wrongful death cause of action.
