We all have our preferred way of getting around. Depending on the time of year, residents in Massachusetts and elsewhere may be more compelled to get to their destinations on foot, by bike or in a motor vehicle. No matter what form of transportation an individual uses, he or she is faced with certain risks. These risks stem from motorists not being attentive to their surroundings or being reckless. Such conduct is often the culprit of a serious or even fatal collision.
Why have vehicle-related fatalities risen? Many would assume this is based on increased city populations and the increasing desire to constantly go or be somewhere. While this does play a role in the growing statistics, this is not the answer that captures the entire situation.
When looking at vehicle-rated fatalities overall, these have risen only slightly in the past few years after experiencing declines for decades. But when looking at fatalities experienced by vehicle occupants, these have not risen. This means that motorcycle, bicycle and pedestrian deaths are those experiencing an increase.
While the overall fatality rate among pedestrians is dramatically down since the 1975, decreasing 51 percent, the rate of pedestrian deaths is still noteworthy. In 2015, 186 children and 270 teenagers were killed in auto-pedestrian crashes. Much like the younger populations being a more likely victim of pedestrian accidents, the same goes for bicycle accidents as well.
Following a serious of fatal car crash, it is important to understand your rights as a victim or the loved one of a victim. A civil action, such as a personal injury claim or wrongful death action could help hold a negligent driver accountable and assist with the recovery of compensation that could be used to address losses and damages related to the accident.
