Americans have a deep-seated love affair with their automobiles. The freedom to travel anywhere, anytime, with our loved ones, all while enjoying our favorite music in the comfort and safety of our cars, is unparalleled. Modern automobiles are marvels of safety engineering, equipped with features like safety glass, foam cushioning, anti-lock brakes, and airbags.
However, despite these advancements, the reality of car accidents remains grim. Each year, there are approximately 6 million car accidents on U.S. roads, leading to 3 million injuries, of which 2 million are permanent. An American is injured in a car accident every 14 seconds. Over a five-year period, more than 25% of U.S. drivers will be involved in an accident.
Tragically, over 40,000 Americans lose their lives in car accidents annually, equivalent to one death every 12 minutes. For individuals aged 1 to 30, car accidents are the leading cause of death. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), about 40% of these fatalities involve a drunken driver, 30% are due to excessive speed, and 30% result from reckless driving.
Many of these reckless drivers did not intend to drive poorly but were distracted by cell phones, conversations with passengers, eating, or other activities. Notably, half of the individuals killed in car accidents were not wearing seat belts, despite mandatory seat belt laws. It’s important to remember that failing to wear a seat belt does not automatically bar recovery from a negligent party responsible for an accident.
Insurance companies often conceal that the at-fault driver is insured, leading jurors to wrongly assume the driver will personally pay the verdict. In reality, the insurance company covers the driver’s lawyers, court costs, and the verdict.
In 2010, uninsured drivers caused over 8,700 crashes in Ohio. Uninsured drivers are at fault in three out of every four crashes they are involved in. Ohio had 1.1 million uninsured motorists in 2011, which is an increase of 60% from a decade ago. Despite Ohio requiring auto insurance since 1953, the state still has one of the highest rates of uninsured drivers in the nation.
Unlike Maine, where proof of insurance is required annually, Ohio’s system only requires drivers to check a box declaring they have insurance without providing proof. This lack of enforcement contributes to the high rate of uninsured drivers.
With over 35 years of experience, Goldberg Legal is dedicated to helping victims of automobile accidents and their families. We specialize in claims for property damage, injuries, and fatalities. While no amount of money can replace a lost loved one, compensation can alleviate future financial burdens.
Our team includes a full-time physician to review injuries and technical consultants to prepare your case for trial or settlement. We are prepared to challenge any responsible party, no matter how powerful they may seem.
We offer free consultations to discuss potential claims involving injury or death from automobile accidents. It’s crucial to file your claim within the applicable Statutes of Limitation, which are very short. Don’t let the compensation you and your family deserve lapse due to timing. Contact us today to discuss your potential car accident claim at no cost to you.
