A reported 38,680 people died in motor vehicle accidents in the United States in 2020 alone, according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), making it the deadliest year for American motorists since 2007. One of the main culprits behind the rise in fatal crashes: failure to wear a seat belt.
Highway motor vehicle fatalities involving motorists who weren't wearing seat belts rose 15 percent in 2020. This is particularly concerning considering that nearly half of all people killed in accidents were not wearing their seat belts at the time of the crash. For teens age 13 to 19 and adults age 20 to 44, that number is more than 50 percent.
Some auto manufacturers are implementing safeguards in an attempt to encourage motorists to buckle up. General Motors, for example, will introduce a system that will require drivers to buckle their seat belts before shifting into gear.
Lack of seat belt use is part of an overall increase in unsafe behaviors on the road, including speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and texting while driving. Sadly, these are not only some of the most common causes of accidents, but also frequent factors in crashes with catastrophic and often fatal consequences.
If you were hurt—or lost a loved one—in a devastating car or truck crash caused by another person or company's negligence, the skilled personal injury attorneys with Rechtman & Spevak can help you understand your rights and explore your options for compensation. We've assisted countless Georgia accident victims in fighting for—and obtaining—the damages they deserve. Ready to find out how our knowledgeable and experienced Atlanta lawyers can help with your car or truck accident case?
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Contact Rechtman & Spevak to schedule a free initial consultation with a member of our team. Don't wait—Georgia law limits how long you have to take legal action. The sooner you reach out, the better.
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