Louisiana Traffic Accidents on the Decline

As reported by the Louisiana Department of Transportation (DOT), traffic accidents, injuries, and fatalities have been declining in the state over the last few years. In 2007, fatal crashes numbered 900 with 993 people dying as a result. In 2012, fatal traffic accidents had declined to 652 with 722 actual deaths. This translates to a 27 percent reduction. Injury crashes also fell by 7.5 percent from 2007 to 2012 and actual injury victims fell by 8.1 percent in those same years. Driver fatalities fell the most, by 31 percent from 2007 to 2012. These declines in accidents, injuries, and fatalities occurred even as the population in the state grew.

Another area of improvement was in alcohol-related traffic crashes, injuries, and deaths. In 2007, 44 percent of all traffic accidents in the state were alcohol-related. This percentage had decreased to 40 percent in 2012. Overall, a 35 percent reduction in the number of actual alcohol-related crashes occurred from 2007 to 2012. In 2007, Louisiana exceeded the national average of alcohol-related fatalities per 100 million miles traveled. The U.S. percentage was 31 percent in that year while Louisiana's was 45 percent. In 2011, the national average remained at 31 percent while Louisiana's had decreased to 41 percent. Overall, the total number of Louisiana alcohol-related crashes declined by 7.24 percent during the five-year period from 2007 to 2012. While this is good progress, alcohol-related crashes at 41 percent per 100 million miles traveled is still much too high, resulting in far too many fatalities in the state.

Car Accident Lawyer in Lafayette, Louisiana

Nearly everyone has been touched by a traffic accident, whether it involves family, friends, co-workers, or oneself. The injuries that can result can be devastating, resulting in unpredicted medical expenses, loss of work, pain and suffering, and more. When these injuries are the result of another party's negligence, recklessness, or misconduct, victims deserve to be compensated for their damages. Getting qualified legal help can facilitate this. An attorney can handle your claim and negotiate aggressively on your behalf with insurance companies to ensure that you receive a fair and just settlement.

At Doran & Cawthorne, PLLC, you can work with legal professionals that have a combined 24 years of practical experience in handling personal injury cases and finding solutions for their clients. Due to their high level of client service and legal ability, the firm has earned an Excellent rating by Avvo and an AV (highest) rating by Martindale-Hubbell. They have also been recognized by Super Lawyers. If you have a question about personal injury law or wish to get started with a claim, contact the firm to fill out a free case evaluation form.