Traffic Deaths Rose Sharply During Pandemic Lockdowns

Despite coronavirus-related lockdowns reducing the number of vehicles on the road, more than 42,000 people died in car and truck accidents in 2020, according to the National Safety Council (NSC). This not only represents an 8 percent increase in motor vehicle fatalities compared to 2019, but is also a 24 percent increase in the fatality rate per 100 million miles driven—the most significant jump in this metric since 1923.

What's Behind the Dramatic Spike in Traffic Deaths?

While stay-at-home orders kept most drivers off the roads, many who did go out used the sparsely populated roadways as an excuse to engage in reckless behavior behind the wheel. Experts cite speeding, aggressive driving, drunk or drugged driving, and fewer people using seat belts or appropriate child restraints as some of the main culprits driving the increase in fatalities.

Even more disturbing: Though traffic has largely returned to pre-pandemic levels, overall, motorists who took risks during lockdown haven't corrected their behavior. As a result, researchers fear the U.S. could be on track for another year of increased deaths.

Hurt or lost a loved one in a Georgia car, truck, pedestrian, or motorcycle crash caused by another person or company's negligence? Rechtman & Spevak's skilled Atlanta personal injury attorneys can help you take legal action to recoup your accident-related losses. Depending on the facts and evidence in your case, we may be able to help you recover compensation for:

• Medical expenses (including medically necessary travel costs, home or vehicle modifications, the cost of future care, etc.)
• Lost wages
• Loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Reduced quality of life
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• And other damages

If your loved one was killed in a car crash during the pandemic, you may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim and pursue compensation for the decedent's accident-related medical expenses and funeral and burial costs, as well as lost benefits, services, care, companionship, guidance, and more.

Talk to a Georgia Car Accident Attorney

Contact Rechtman & Spevak today to request an appointment for a free initial consultation, so we can review your case and discuss your legal rights and options.