According to some 2014 data from the California Office of Traffic Safety, there are some things to happy about and many more things to be upset about. The data from that year in motor vehicle accidents shows that while the number of traffic fatalities declined when compared to 2013, most other significant statistical figures increased.
For example, restrained occupants of a motor vehicle that suffered fatal injuries increased in 2014 when compared to 2013. Fatal motorcycle accidents increased by a whopping 12 percent over the same time period. Fatalities that involve teenagers and motor vehicles increased slightly. There are a lot of areas where road safety in the state simply got worse from 2013 to 2014.
Data for 2015 will certainly give us a better picture as to whether this is a growing trend or not. But for the most part, traffic safety did not improve in 2014. There was some good news: pedestrian and bike fatalities decreased across the state, especially in relation to bicycle fatalities (down 12.9 percent from 2013 to 2014).
Ultimately, though, the lesson here is that not every person out on California roads is safe. In fact, many drivers act irresponsibly, deciding to drive while distracted or intoxicated.
This can lead to a motor vehicle accident, one that deals people serious injuries or even claims their lives. If it can be proven that a driver was negligent or irresponsible, then the injured victim or the loved ones of a deceased victim could pursue civil litigation.
Source: California Office of Traffic Safety, “Quick Stats, 2014,” Accessed June 6, 2016
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