In Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia, the roads are busy throughout the year. Keeping accurate auto accident statistics is a key factor in trying to find ways to prevent them. There has been growing concern about road dangers in recent years with a spike in speeding, drivers who are under the influence and distraction.
The latest numbers for the nation’s capital show that the number of fatalities on the city’s roads has been increasing to levels not seen since 2007. As legislators and law enforcement seek solutions, those who are using the roads as drivers, passengers, bicyclists and pedestrians need to be aware of the causes to try and stay safe.
Road fatalities have risen substantially from 2022
The most recent numbers show that there has been a 60% increase in D.C. road fatalities when compared to the same time in 2022. This information comes to light while the city has taken specific steps to try and address the problem through the Vision Zero program.
Vision Zero’s objective is to prevent all motor vehicle fatalities. While this is ambitious, some of the steps such as more bicycle lanes, reducing speed limits and installing speed cameras have shown promise. Still, the latest count for the city shows 45 people have lost their lives in a collision. Seventeen were pedestrians and two were riding bicycles.
In the immediate aftermath of Vision Zero being implemented, there was improvement from 54 fatalities in 2007 to 26 in 2015. Unfortunately, the numbers have been rising steadily to the current point. There are still plans in place to alter traffic patterns, add speed cameras and reduce speed limits.
Those impacted by an auto accident have rights
Given the rise in auto fatalities of all kinds, people must be vigilant when they take to the road in any capacity. Despite the attempts at enhancing safety and more automobiles being equipped with advanced technology to prevent auto accidents, the dangers persist. It is vital for people who have been hurt or lost a loved one to know what steps are available to pay for medical care, lost wages and other challenges.