Motor vehicle accidents are some of the most common personal injury cases, including fatal car accidents. When a major car accident causes severe injuries that result in death, the families of the victims of a fatal car accident may be able to bring a personal injury case against the negligent driver who caused the accident. If a loved one has been killed in a car accident, you should contact a Colorado personal injury attorney to discuss your options.
Fatal Car Accident Facts
Fatal car accidents cost the ultimate price–human lives. Fatal car accidents also cost states millions of dollars per year. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), those not involved in car accidents pay nearly three-quarters of all crash costs in the form of insurance premiums, property damage, travel delays and taxes. In 2010, the number of deaths resulting from fatal car crashes declined 3 percent, at an estimated 32,788 people, down from 33,308 deaths in 2009.
In Colorado, 464 people were killed in traffic crashes. Despite many programs and initiatives in place state-wide to inform drivers of the dangers of drunk driving, speeding, driving while under the influence of drugs and the importance of exercising safety on the road, far too many fatal car accidents still occur.
Causes of Fatal Car Accidents
The most common causes of fatal car accidents are:
- Driving while drunk
- Driving under the influence of drugs;
- Speeding;
- Running red lights;
- Driver fatigue;
- Driver distraction
- Multi-tasking (i.e., driving while texting, talking on a cell phone or changing radio stations)
The Emotional Cost of Fatal Car Accidents
Surviving spouses and family members of fatal car accident victims are left with the painful task of going with their lives without their loved one. The emotional anguish will linger long after the accident. Sometimes the anguish is severe, and the survivors may need professional help or even medical treatment if they experience physical pain brought on by the stress of the ordeal. This means medical expenses that can pile up.
Why Retain an Attorney?
The advantages of having a Colorado personal injury attorney include having someone who is sympathetic and understanding, who can bring justice and closure to the family, and someone who can negotiate with insurance companies and/or other attorneys who may be representing other parties involved in the accident.
The experienced Colorado personal injury attorneys at the O’Connell Law Firm, P.C. possess 40 years of legal experience and have a successful track record handling fatal car accident cases. They will counsel and guide you throughout the legal process and explain your rights under the law. These personal injury attorneys focus on getting the largest possible settlement, while ensuring responsible parties are held accountable for their role in your loved one’s fatal car accident. The attorneys’ strong litigating and negotiating skills are a plus for dealing with insurance companies. Call for a free initial consultation to discuss your case and your options.
