Driving is a part of life for most Marylanders. We depend on our cars for work, school, and family time. Yet every time we get behind the wheel, we take on the risk of being involved in a vehicle accident. Furthermore, most people don’t think about the odds of dying in a car crash until tragedy strikes close to home.
The reality is sobering. Car accidents are a leading cause of death for people of all ages. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that more than 42,000 people died in car crashes in the U.S. in 2022. This might seem like a low number in comparison to the population size, but the reality is still gruesome. According to the National Safety Council, in 2023, 1 in 95 people died as a result of a motor vehicle crash. These numbers show that the odds of dying in a car crash are more substantial than many people realize, especially when looking at long-term risk.
These sad statistics of vehicle accident deaths, whether you are a pedestrian or occupant, showcase how it can happen to you or a loved one. In these cases, you’ll want to ensure that you receive proper compensation for the damages so that your family can be on the road to recovery. This is where we come in.
At The Law Offices of Alex Poberesky, P.A., we see the impact of these accidents on families every day. We help people pick up the pieces after devastating events, guiding clients through grief, confusion, and financial strain.
Leading Causes of Fatal Car Accidents
While the chances of dying in a car accident might scare you from getting in a car again, there are things that can be done to prevent these accidents. By understanding the leading causes, one can avoid these things and increase their chances of not being involved in one. That being said, here are the most common causes that our team has observed:
- Distracted driving: Using phones, eating, or even changing the radio can turn attention away from the road.
- Speeding: Driving faster than posted limits or too fast for road conditions blatantly goes against road safety rules, resulting in accidents.
- Impaired driving: Alcohol and drugs greatly increase the risk of fatal accidents.
- Not using a seat belt: This single factor makes a huge difference in surviving a car accident.
- Weather and road conditions: Rain, snow, and ice create hazards that increase crash deaths.
- Aggressive driving: Tailgating, unsafe lane changes, and road rage are behind many collisions.
According to the Maryland Department of Transportation, distracted driving contributes to 48 percent of all crashes in Maryland. What is tragic is that these accidents can be easily avoided by simply focusing on the road.
A Deeper Dive into the Odds of Dying in a Car Crash
In 2022, the National Highway Traffic Safety Commission reported that the fatality rate per 100 million vehicle miles traveled in the U.S. was about 1.35. The good news about this depressing number is that it was trending downwards over the past two years.
By looking at the number of fatal motor vehicle crashes by deaths per 100 million, we can get accurate data to properly look at the probability of dying in such a manner. That being said, the probability of dying due to a motor vehicle is relatively low. This could be from a number of reasons, like improved vehicle safety, technology in cars increasing, or others.
And while the lifetime odds of dying due to a car are lower, car fatalities are still a tragic thing that occurs.
The Real Cost of a Fatal Crash
Many families never imagine facing these hardships because the odds of dying in a car crash seem distant until a tragic collision suddenly changes everything. Families can face:
- Funeral costs
- Lost wages and future income
- Medical bills
- Emotional pain and suffering
These expenses pile up quickly. While the insurance companies promise proper compensation for the surviving family, the reality is that they are just looking for the lowest amount to pay out. This could result in some things not being covered, leaving the family to pay for things that they never should be paying for.
With a proper lawyer like ours, though, you can ensure that this doesn’t happen. In addition to getting justice for the one killed in a car accident, we work to ensure that insurers give proper restitution to those who need it.
What to Do After a Car Collision that Resulted in a Fatality
The moments after an accident, fatal or not, are chaotic. Here’s what we recommend:
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Call 911: Get emergency help and report the accident.
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Get medical attention: Even if you feel fine, injuries can be hidden.
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Gather information: If you’re able, get names of witnesses, take photos, and record as many details as you can.
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Do not discuss fault: Save these conversations for your lawyer.
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Contact your insurance company: Report the incident and start your claim.
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Reach out to a personal injury attorney: The sooner you contact an experienced law firm, the better.
By following these steps, you are already building the proper foundation for a winning case.
Why a Personal Injury Lawyer Makes a Difference After a Fatal Car Crash
Trying to deal with insurance adjusters, paperwork, and legal claims while grieving is almost impossible. Insurance companies often try to settle fast or deny claims, especially when the other driver was at fault or left the scene. When you work with us at the Law Offices of Alex Poberesky, we take care of you like you are family! This, along with our practices, has resulted in several years of helping clients get proper compensation.
When you work with us, we help you by doing the following for your case:
- Investigating the crash, collecting evidence, and building a strong case
- Calculating full damages, including medical bills, funeral expenses, and future financial needs
- Negotiating with insurers and standing up to low offers
We take care of all of the confusing legal work for you, but we always make sure to keep you in the loop. At every turn, we will talk with you and inform you of what’s going on with your case. One of our goals is to always have our clients informed about the latest in regards to their case. This sets us apart from other firms that are just looking for a quick payout.
What Sets the Law Offices of Alex Poberesky, P.A. Apart
With more than 25 years of legal experience, our team has guided clients through every type of personal injury case. We have handled medical malpractice, slip and falls, and every type of vehicle accident, from motorcycles to big rigs. All of this experience gives us the confidence to handle your case and ensure a proper settlement when everything is said and done.
We know that there are a lot of firms in the area to choose from, but here’s what makes us different:
- Local expertise: We know Maryland’s roads, courts, and insurance companies.
- Personal touch: Every client gets individual attention. We know your case isn’t just another file.
- Proven results: We’ve recovered millions for clients who have lost loved ones in car accidents and other non-fatal accidents.
- No upfront fees: You only pay if we win your case.
- Clear communication: We keep you informed, so you always know what’s happening.
These reasons and more are why we have so many positive reviews online. It is also why we are held so highly in the local communities: because we help our neighbors get better, not just a quick paycheck.
Frequently Asked Questions about Car Crash Deaths
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What are the odds of dying in a vehicle accident?
Lifetime odds are about 1 in 93 in the U.S.
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Is it worth hiring a lawyer to manage a fatal vehicle accident case?
Yes. An attorney helps you recover full compensation and handles complex claims.
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How long do I have to file a claim after an accident in Maryland?
Maryland law usually gives you three years, but acting sooner is better.
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Can I get compensation if the other driver was uninsured or fled the scene?
Yes. Maryland drivers have uninsured motorist coverage that may help.
How to Lower the Likelihood of Dying in an Accident with a Motor Vehicle
And while the odds of dying in a car crash can never be reduced to zero, adopting basic safety habits dramatically lowers your risk. While you won’t be able to control the other drivers, there are several things that you can do to increase your chances of never being involved in one of these accidents. Some of the simple things you can do to protect yourself are:
- Wear your seat belt every trip.
- Don’t use your phone behind the wheel.
- Don’t drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Follow speed limits and adjust for weather.
- Make sure children are in proper safety seats.
One of the biggest tips is to always wear your seatbelt and ensure that it is on properly. There’s a good reason why so many agencies are constantly reminding us to do so. Simply put: they save lives.
Why Maryland Families Trust Our Law Firm
The Law Offices of Alex Poberesky, P.A., treats every case with respect and care. We see our clients as people, not case numbers. We use our knowledge of Maryland personal injury law, insurance, and court procedures to fight for justice.
Likewise, we believe that no family should handle the aftermath of such a tragic case alone. This is why we are so adamant to help: we care about our clients.
Ready to Take the Next Steps after a Fatal Car Accident? Call us Today!
If you’ve lost someone in a fatal vehicle accident or have questions about your rights, contact the Law Offices of Alex Poberesky, P.A. We offer a free, confidential consultation. Plus, you only pay us if we recover compensation for you.
Let our team help you through the hardest days, so you can focus on healing and rebuilding. Reach out to us today!
