Car Accident Fatalities Skyrocket During the Pandemic

Preliminary data from the National Safety Council indicates that although Americans are driving less as a result of the pandemic, the emptier roads have become more lethal. The Council has reported that when compared to data from last year, there has been a 14% increase in fatality rates per miles driven. While there is less driving during the pandemic, the number of fatalities in car accidents have increased.

Lorraine M. Martin, National Safety Council president and CEO states that as traffic lanes have opened during the pandemic, many drivers equate this to an open season for reckless driving.

The National Safety Council Works to Reduce Unnecessary Roadway Dangers

According to the National Safety Council, there have been anecdotal reports that indicate that speeding has significantly increased since traffic lessened during the pandemic. Additionally, the council reports that some states are moving toward ill-advised tactics that aim to address issues presented by the pandemic, but they ultimately have far-reaching implications. One example has been the repealing of the requirements needed for underage drivers to pass their tests and obtain a driver’s license. Another concerning issue has been the sudden relaxation of hours of service for commercial vehicle drivers.

In order to lessen unnecessary roadway dangers, the National Safety Council recommends the following:

• Obeying speed limits, even when the roads are clear,
• Following state laws and local directives when it comes to the stay-at-home orders,
• Remaining extra vigilant around pedestrians and bicyclists, and
• Practice defensive driving, such as avoiding unnecessary distractions and driving attentively.

 

Challenges Faced When Involved in an Auto Accident Amid the Pandemic

Unfortunately, even when practicing safe driving, it is impossible to control the actions of others on the road. After suffering a car accident during the pandemic, auto accident victims are seeing unprecedented challenges, which exacerbate the already existing problems surrounded by an auto accident.

People who are involved in an auto accident during the pandemic face two major challenges: The first is that it has become increasingly difficult to obtain medical attention in the aftermath of a car accident when the injuries appear to be a non-emergency. When seeking financial compensation, an absent medical record is likely to result in an unsuccessful claim.

Secondly, people who are involved in a car accident during the pandemic are experiencing delays throughout their claim process. When it comes to in-person investigations, insurance companies are taking necessary precautions, and this has resulted in extended waiting times for a claim to be processed and/or approved. Additionally, claims that need to go through the California court system are also currently backlogged. In response to the Governor’s State of Emergency Order, the California Judicial Council has approved temporary rules, one of which includes extending the statute of limitations governing civil claims.

Speak to a Knowledgeable Attorney Who Can Represent Your Case

A car accident can be a very traumatizing event, often filled with stress and anxiety about the extent of property damage and physical injuries. When a victim suffers an accident that was caused as a result of another, the victim has the legal right to pursue a claim against the liable party for damages. During the COVID-19 pandemic, pursuing a personal injury claim for damages has become slightly more complicated.

If you have experienced a car accident during the pandemic, it is critical to seek the support of a qualified attorney who can help you navigate these challenges. Although the statute of limitations has been extended for civil claims, there are other obstacles involved that need to be handled shortly after the accident.

With more than 30 years of dedicated experience, the personal injury attorneys at the Knez Law Group have helped hundreds of auto accident victims recover compensation for their injuries. Auto accident claims are routinely complex, but the COVID-19 pandemic has presented newfound dilemmas. Consider contacting the Knez Law Group today for a no-obligation consultation.