Motorists in Montana and other states across the nation are aware of the responsibilities that come with driving a motor vehicle. However, even when a driver take extra precaution to drive safely and fulfill the person’s duty to drive safely while behind the wheel of a vehicle, this does not help them avoid the harms and risks associated with negligent drivers. In fact, it often does not matter how safe a driver is, the risk of an accident occurring always remains because there is always a chance that a motorist will encounter a negligent, reckless or intoxicated driver.

Putting this risk in a national perspective, approximately 37,000 people die in serious car accidents each year. On a global scale, about 1.3 million people die in motor vehicle crashes each year. This translates to roughly 3,287 deaths every day across the world. And it comes at no surprise that individuals and families across the United States often endure severe hardship and pain and suffering due to automobile crashes. Whether you were a driver, passenger, motorcyclist, biker or even a pedestrian, being a victim of a car accident can seriously impact your life and the life of your loved ones.

The most common culprit for automobile accidents is distracted driving. This commonly occurs when someone is on the phone while driving. Other common causes for car crashes include speeding, drunk driving and reckless driving. Other notable causes include weather elements, such as rain, snow and ice, as well as running a red light or stop sign, disobeying street signs and traffic rules and even driving while tired.

With regards to pedestrian crashes, these make up roughly 13 percent of all automobile related deaths occurring in the United States. The highest rate of pedestrian deaths have a tendency to occur on Halloween and New Year’s Day, each averaging around 24 deaths. It is also important to note that automobile collisions, whether with another vehicle, cyclist or pedestrian, cause serious injuries and disabilities each year. Roughly 2.35 million people are either injured or disables due to a car accident each year.

Following a car accident, it is important to determine the cause of the collision. This information could help assign liability, helping an injured party recover compensation from any negligent party that caused a victim to suffer injuries and losses.

Source: Groundreport.com, “Over 37,000 People Die in Road Crashes Each Year,” Aug. 9, 2016