Road deaths are increasing in Pennsylvania and across the nation, and reckless driving has also become more problematic and common in recent months. Many of the fatal crashes that occur across Pennsylvania and the United States share similar characteristics in common. Recognizing what avoidable behaviors often contribute to these crashes is an important part of preventing them.
Per Erie News Now, fatal crashes in Pennsylvania increased by 10% between January and September in 2021 and the same stretch of time the year before.
Fatal crash statistics
The increase in fatal car wrecks seen across Pennsylvania is similar to that seen at the national level. Across the United States, fatal crashes rose 12% during the first nine months of 2021 when compared to the first nine months of 2020. Many of the factors that contributed to fatal crashes across Pennsylvania also did so at the national level.
Fatal crash contributors
Speed is a frequent contributor to fatal crashes across the state and nation. Distracted driving, which includes the use of cellphones or in-vehicle navigation systems, among other forms of distraction, is also a common factor in fatal crashes. Impaired driving, or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, also plays a role in many fatal car wrecks. A lack of seat belt use is also common in fatal crashes. Research indicates that 94% of those who were not wearing seat belts and then died in crashes would have survived the wrecks had they had their seat belts on.
When drivers exhibit negligence and their actions injure or cause the death of others, they may face serious repercussions.