Traffic Deaths on the Rise in Kentucky

A recent news report featured on wlky.com revealed an alarming fact: fatal traffic accidents in the Bluegrass State are on the increase. Government officials believe that the increase in traffic deaths may be explained in part by lower gas prices enabling more individuals to drive. Statistics show:

• As of Tuesday October 6, there were 549 traffic fatalities in Kentucky – 58 more than at the same time in 2014;
• The majority of traffic fatalities happened during the summer: as of June 1, 2015, there were 253 fatalities and by October 6, 2015 there were 549;
• Of the 549 traffic fatalities, 215 victims were not wearing seatbelts at the time of the fatal crash; and
• A total of 104 fatal traffic crashes involved alcohol and 137 involved driver inattention.

With many children back in school and some off at college, what can drivers – and parents of drivers – do to help halt the sudden spike in Kentucky traffic deaths?

Action Steps for Kentucky Drivers

A simple ride to the store or trip home to see family can turn deadly in the time to takes to glance at a cell phone or respond to a text message. Thankfully there are steps that drivers can take to help reduce the chance of being involved in a traffic collision:

• Buckle up! This may seem like simple advice, but statistics do not lie: you are more likely to survive a car collision if you are wearing a seatbelt. Not only can a seatbelt save your own life, but parents should set a good example for young drivers by wearing seatbelts at all times when in a car. Insist that your passengers wear their seatbelts as well.
• Put the cellphone down! Distracted driving is an increasing problem on Kentucky roadways. Long stretches of highway lead drivers to believe that they can safely take their eyes off the road to check e-mails or answer text messages. In the time it takes to read an average text, however, you can travel the length of a football field if you are driving at 55 mph. Keep your eyes on the road and turn your cell phone off while you are driving. If you must use the phone, pull off to a safe area and stop the car before using your phone. No phone call or text is worth your life.
• Know when you’ve had one too many! Drunk driving is not just illegal, but it can also cost you and others on the road their lives. If you plan on partying with friends, arrange to have a designated driver take you home or call a taxicab. And if you notice that a friend appears to be intoxicated, do not let that person get behind the wheel of a car.

Contact a Lexington Car Accident Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one is involved in a Kentucky car crash caused by the negligent or reckless behavior of another driver, you may be entitled to financial compensation for your injuries and expenses. Contact the Lexington car accident lawyers at Frank Jenkins Law Office today by calling (888) 659-4240 and discuss your case with a compassionate and knowledgeable attorney.