There were 1.35 million traffic-related fatalities globally in 2016, according to the Global Status Report on Road Safety. This means that traffic accidents caused more deaths than HIV/AIDS. In addition, it’s the No. 1 cause of death among those between the ages of 5 and 29. Since the United Nations wants to halve road deaths by 2020, advocates are taking steps to makes the roads in South Carolina and throughout the world safer.
For example, 140 countries that were part of the WHO report had a national plan to increase road safety. Furthermore, 123 countries had laws that aimed to reduce speeding, drunk driving or other risk factors for fatal accidents. However, not all countries have laws that comply with established best practices. Furthermore, some countries that do meet best practices as they relate to drunk driving laws don’t set specific blood alcohol limits.
Where a person lives has an impact on their likelihood of being involved in a fatal road accident. For instance, low-income parts of the world are riskier than more developed areas. Those living in less developed countries saw no reduction in traffic death rates from 2013 to 2016.
A person who is injured by a negligent driver may be entitled to compensation for his or her injuries. By filing a personal injury claim, a victim could receive money to pay for medical bills or recoup lost wages. Legal counsel could help the victim take action against the at-fault party. Damages are commonly paid out when negligence, such as speeding, drunk driving or distracted driving, lead to an accident.