The total number of annual traffic deaths stemming from auto accidents and motorcycle accidents rose by a considerable number in 2015, according to a recent report issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The NHTSA compiled data from the first nine months of 2015 and found that U.S. traffic fatalities occurred at a more frequent rate than the first nine months of 2014, going up by 9.3 percent.

More Traffic Deaths per Mile Driven

Another important number used by auto safety experts to gauge the meaning and significance of traffic fatality rates New Jersey, New York and elsewhere in the United States is the amount of traffic deaths that occur per mile driven. In 2015, there were 1.10 auto accident fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles, a five-percent increase over the previous year. This trend is not terribly surprising, especially given that more people than ever are driving cars, trucks and motorcycles on U.S. roadways.

Distracted Driving Motorcycle Helmet Safety Issues

U.S. and international automakers have been taking steps to install safety equipment, such as better airbags, to make cars incredibly safe. However, this hasn’t stemmed the tide of traffic fatalities on highways and local roads. Some safety experts who have analyzed the data provided by the NHTSA believe that a major reason for the recent rise in traffic deaths may be the proliferation of technology that has led to more distracted driving accidents. Drivers who talk on phone or text while driving are putting themselves and others at risk of serious injury or even death.

Distracted driving accidents can be even worse for motorcyclists, many of whom are completely exposed to the roadway and unprotected by the body of a motor vehicle in the event of a collision. Beyond that, motorcyclists who fail to wear helmets place themselves at even greater risk of serious injury or death.

For further information about the rise in traffic deaths, access the Verge article, “US Traffic Fatalities Rose Slightly Last Year, but Don’t Panic Just Yet.”

If you or someone you care about has been injured in a motorcycle accident, you need to contact an experienced lawyer who is passionate about fighting for the rights of riders. Andrew S. Prince of Team Law will work tirelessly to get you the maximum compensation possible in your personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit.