How Car Accidents Can Lead to Wrongful Death Lawsuits
Car accidents can happen in an instant. Simple mistakes—like distracted driving, speeding, or driving under the influence—can result in tragic consequences. In the United States, drivers are responsible not only for their own safety but also for the safety of everyone else on the road.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in 2018:
- 36,560 people died in traffic accidents
- 6,283 pedestrians were killed in auto accidents
- 857 cyclists were killed in car accidents
Every risk a driver takes increases the potential for a fatal accident, which can lead to wrongful death claims.
Main Causes of Fatal Car Accidents
The NHTSA reports that 90% of car accidents are caused by human error. The most common causes include:
- Distracted driving
- Drunk driving
- Speeding
- Driving under the influence of drugs
- Not wearing a seat belt
- Drowsy driving
Drunk Driving
Drunk driving remains a leading cause of fatalities on U.S. roads. Alcohol impairs judgment, reaction time, and coordination, increasing the risk of serious accidents. Even moderate alcohol consumption can put drivers and passengers at risk of death, injuries, or legal consequences.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving contributed to 2,841 deaths in 2018. This includes activities such as texting, using a phone, eating, or adjusting navigation systems while driving. Even a few seconds of distraction at highway speeds can be deadly. Drivers involved in fatal distracted driving accidents can face both criminal and civil liability, including wrongful death lawsuits.
Speeding
Speeding caused 9,378 deaths in 2018, making it the second-leading cause of traffic fatalities. High speeds reduce the time to react to emergencies and increase the severity of crashes. Fatal accidents caused by speeding can lead to civil liability for wrongful death and criminal penalties.
Driving Under the Influence of Drugs
Driving under the influence of marijuana, opioids, or other drugs is dangerous. Impairment affects spatial awareness, reaction time, and judgment. Data shows a significant portion of weekend nighttime drivers test positive for drugs, increasing the risk of serious accidents. Drivers under the influence of drugs can face criminal charges and civil lawsuits if their actions result in a fatal accident.
Not Wearing a Seat Belt
Seat belts save lives. Drivers and passengers who do not buckle up are at higher risk of fatal injuries. Airbags alone cannot prevent all injuries in a crash. Fatalities linked to unbelted occupants can result in wrongful death claims against the driver.
Drowsy Driving
Drowsy driving causes hundreds of deaths annually. Fatigue reduces reaction time and alertness, particularly on long drives or during late-night hours. Crashes due to drowsy driving are often preventable with adequate sleep and periodic rest breaks.
Wrongful Death Lawsuits
If your actions cause another person’s death, you may face a wrongful death lawsuit. Such lawsuits seek compensation for the deceased’s family, which can include:
- Funeral and burial costs
- Lost wages and future earnings
- Replacement of lost inheritance
- Compensation for loss of companionship
- Medical expenses incurred before death
Being aware of the legal and personal consequences of dangerous driving emphasizes the importance of responsible behavior behind the wheel. Driving safely not only reduces financial and legal risk but also protects lives.