According to the U.S. Department for Transportation estimates, in the first half of 2021, 18.4% more people died in road traffic crashes compared to 2020 in the United States. The global epidemic of road crash fatalities and injuries is gradually being recognized as a major public health concern.
“This is a health and safety crisis of an astronomical scar,” said LeahShahum, Executive Director of Vision Zero Network, a nonprofit supporting the goal of zero traffic deaths. “ This year, on World Day of Remembrance, we stand together to say ‘ Enough is Enough’ and we demand change.”
This year, World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic victims is taking a new sense of urgency as the number of people dying on the road and severely injured in preventable road accidents is increasing exponentially in the United States. Here at The Carlson Law Firm, we invite everyone to learn more about what the day entails and remember all those loved ones that have been injured or passed due to an automobile accident. In addition, we encourage everyone to learn ways in which to be a better driver and prevent many deaths and serious injures, in particular those pedestrians and other vulnerable road users.
What is World Day of Remembrance for road traffic victims?
World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims takes place on the third Sunday in November every year. The Day is an opportunity to draw attention to the scale of the emotional and economic devastation caused by road crashes and to give recognition to the suffering of road crash victims and the work of support and rescue services.
Road deaths and injuries are violent, sudden, and traumatic events. About 1.35 million people die in road crashes each year, with an addition of about 20-50 million people who suffer non-fatal injuries, often resulting in long-term disabilities. Road crashes are the leading cause of death for those between ages 15 and 29.
In addition to road crashes impacting people’s lives, road crashes are very costly. Low and middle-income countries pay $65 billion a year to cover the costs associated with road crashes.
There is a website that is dedicated to making the Day more widely known and linking countries through sharing common objectives and the remembrance of people killed and injured in crashes.
What is the history?
First started by RoadPeace in 1993, The United Nations decided to dedicate the third Sunday of number each year at the “appropriate acknowledgment for victims of road traffic injuries and their families”. It was recognized that reducing road risks requires commitment and informed decision-making by government, non-governmental organizations, industry, and international agencies. In addition, road safety requires the participation of people from many different disciplines, including road engineers, community groups, the media, law enforcement officers, and more.
What are some ways to remember today?
As mentioned earlier, World Day of Remembrance for Traffic Victims is honored every year on the third Sunday of November, meaning this year will be honored on November 21st. In order to be an active participant this year, it is important to provide a platform for road traffic victims and their families to:
- Remember all individuals who have been injured and killed on the roads;
- Recognize the hard work of emergency services;
- Advocate for better support for road traffic victims and victim families
- Promote evidence-based actions to prevent and eventually stop further road traffic deaths and injuries.
What are some steps for road safety?
Unfortunately, road traffic accidents are preventable most of the time. Therefore, it is important to do our part when behind a vehicle and recognize the responsibility that we hold as drivers to make the roads a little safer. Here are a few tips to remember to be a better driver:
- Don’t drive impaired by alcohol or drugs
- Make sure to wear your seatbelt during every trip
- Make sure that all children are buckled and seated in the appropriate car seat for their age, height, weight.
- Make sure to obey speed limits
- Drive without distractions
- Be alert when crossing streets, especially in countries where motorists drive on the left side of the road.
What should I do if I have been hit by a negligent driver?
If you have been involved in a car accident, here are a few tips to keep in mind to protect your rights:
- Stay at the scene of the accident. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe spot and check yourself and other passengers for any injuries. In addition, make sure that you stay out of harm’s way of other vehicles that may still be in the vicinity.
- Contact authorities. Make sure to file a police report and get medical care if you or someone else needs it as soon as possible.
- Beware of what you say and sign. Don’t apologize or admit to fault for a wreck until you have spoken to an auto accident attorney first.
- Gather information and evidence. It is important to gather information from other parties that were involved in the car accident. Make note of names, contact information, and driver license number of other drivers passengers, and possible witnesses. In addition, take pictures of the entire scene that can be used as a resource later to prove damages.
- Get help from an experienced car accident attorney. An experienced attorney from The Carlson Law Firm will put your health first and most importantly, will let you focus on the important stuff: your recovery.
Here at The Carlson Law Firm, we care and we can help.
If you have been injured or have a loved one that has passed due to someone’s negligence on the road, contact us today. Here at The Carlson Law Firm, we have 45 years of experience in seeking justice and have helped victims of road traffic tragedies seek justice. We have helped individuals seek:
- Medical bills
- Rehabilitation and physical therapy
- Long-term care
- Lost wages
- Lost earning capacity
- Pain and suffering.
Call us today for a free consultation to discuss your legal rights. We have a legal team that will work tirelessly for the maximum compensation you deserve. We care and we can help
