Holiday Weekend Expected to Lead to More Than 380 Traffic Deaths

Family driving to see family over Memorial Day weekend
Holiday Weekend Expected to Lead to More Than 380 Traffic Deaths
Family driving to see family over Memorial Day weekend

While it is true that motor vehicle accidents regularly occur on roads throughout the nation, there are certain times of the year when these tend to increase. One of those times—Memorial Day weekend—is nearly upon us. Over the course of what is for many a long weekend, it is not uncommon for Wisconsin residents to take advantage of the extra day and drive to see friends and family.

With the increase in the number of vehicles on the road it is inevitable that there will also be an increase in traffic accidents. According to the National Safety Council, over a 54 hour period beginning at 6 p.m. this coming Friday, throughout the country it is estimated that 40,900 individuals will be hurt in car accidents. Sadly 382 people are expected to die.

There are of course things that can be done to try to reduce the number motor vehicle accidents that occur on Western Wisconsin roads. First, those operating vehicles should drive in a defensive manner. Second, all vehicle occupants should be properly restrained with children in safety seats as prescribed. Cell phone use should be avoided while operating a vehicle and no one should ever drink and drive.

While following these suggestions might reduce the number of crashes that occur, they nonetheless can still happen. When serious injury or death is the end result it may make sense to file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit. Such a lawsuit, in which damages might be awarded, could be successful if the negligence of another person is to blame for an incident that leaves someone hurt, or worse, dead. While the funds recovered in a successful case cannot undo the harm that has been inflicted in a car accident, it may make life easier for those dealing with the aftermath.

Source: NSC.org, "National Safety Council Estimates Nearly 400 Fatalities from Crashes this Memorial Day Weekend," May 19, 2014