Facts about Michigan Car Accidents

In 2011, according to state government publications, 889 individuals lost their lives in traffic accidents on Michigan roads and highways. Close to 72,000 individuals were injured that same year in 284,049 reported motor vehicle collisions and crashes. While traffic fatalities decreased by 5.1 percent from 2010 levels, injuries increased by 1.8 percent as did total reported accidents, which increased by 0.7 percent. Alcohol played a part for at least one driver, bicyclist, or pedestrian in 30 percent of all fatal crashes in the state. 21 percent of these accidents involved drinking only; 5 percent involved drugs only; and 9 percent involved a combination of both drugs and alcohol on the part of at least person involved in the fatal accident.

Excessive speed was also a contributing factor in fatal crashes with 14.5 percent of drivers engaging in hazardous speed. For every person killed in a traffic accident that year, another 81 individuals were injured. The Michigan Department of Community Health reports that accidental deaths for children in traffic crashes consistently exceed the next two most common causes of death, which are fires and drowning. Furthermore, the Department reports that about three out of five fatalities for teenagers and young adults aged 15 to 24 are the result of motor vehicle accidents. The overall number of traffic accidents has been on a consistent downward trend in the state in the last decade.

Car Accident Attorney in Detroit

Traffic accidents involving cars, trucks, motorcycles, pedestrians, bicyclists, and buses are frequently caused by negligent drivers. These drivers may drive while under the influence of alcohol and / or drugs, while fatigued, while engaging in other activities such as texting, grooming, or reading maps, or may be speeding, violating other traffic laws, or just failing to pay attention. Whatever the form of negligence, they may be held accountable for the injuries or deaths they inflict on others through legal action.

The Law Offices of Freedman & Freedman, serving clients throughout the metropolitan Detroit area, provides aggressive, attentive, and skilled legal representation to traffic accident victims. The legal team has 34 years of combined experience, both inside the courtroom at trial and outside the courtroom through settlement negotiation. In the wake of a traffic accident, it is vital that you seek competent legal help to obtain the compensation to which you are entitled. Contact the firm for a free case evaluation concerning your accident and injuries to get the assistance you need.