August 21, 2012

Despite a decrease in fatal Texas car accidents in recent years, the number of fatalities is still well above the national average, according to the Austin American-Statesman.

Joint research conducted by the Department of Transportation and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that the national fatality average went from 1.42 deaths per 100 million miles driven in 2006 to 1.11 deaths in 2010, an approximately 21.8 percent decrease. Texas only saw a 15 percent decrease in the fatality rate over the same time period, dropping to 1.5 deaths per 100 million miles driven in 2010.

The higher rates in Texas can partially be explained by more stringent regulations against distracted driving in other states after the governor of Texas last year vetoed a bill that would have created a statewide ban on texting while driving.

Many are applauding the work that has been done in the state to help reduce the number of Texas car accidents. Experts report that seatbelt usage in Texas recently reached a peak at 94 percent of motorists buckling up, which can help decrease the number of fatalities in the state.

The Austin Personal Injury Lawyers with Daniel Stark Injury Lawyers understand how frustrating being injured in a car accident can be. That’s why we encourage anyone who has been hurt in a Texas car accident to explore your legal options by discussing your case with an experienced attorney.