Traffic Fatalities Rose in 2017

The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have released their annual traffic report with data from 2017. The report tragically found that traffic fatalities rose from 2016 in almost all categories, with the largest number of deaths occurring in incidents where a driver was inattentive or speeding.

If your loved one was killed in a traffic accident by a negligent driver, don't hesitate to contact Findlay Personal Injury Lawyers today at 905-522-9799 to schedule your free legal consultation. We will handle your case with care and compassion, and help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.

Inattentive Drivers Account for Most Traffic Fatalities

The so-called "Big Four" of traffic fatality causes include:

• Inattentive driving
• Speeding
• Not wearing a seat belt
• Driving under the influence

Last year, the top number of car accident casualties in Ontario were caused by inattentive drivers, according to the OPP. Inattentiveness most often occurs when drivers are distracted by something else while driving, such as:

• Texting
• Talking on the phone or to a passenger
• Using GPS
• Eating or drinking

Texting especially has become a top cause of car accidents not only in Ontario, but around the world. Texting while driving is incredibly dangerous, as it takes your attention off the road for minutes at a time. It only takes a second to lose control or crash into another car, with potentially fatal consequences.

If you have been injured in a car accident involving a distracted driver, or if you have lost a loved one to negligence on the road, contact Findlay Personal Injury Lawyers to see if you may be entitled to compensation.

2017 Saw Highest Number of Motorcycle Fatalities in 10 Years

Motorcyclists are inherently at a higher risk for catastrophic injuries and death due to how exposed they are. In 2017, 48 motorcyclists died in Ontario, with over half that number not at fault. In 2016, there were 36 motorcycle deaths.

Car drivers are often not on the lookout for motorcyclists, and may fail to see a motorcycle when turning or merging. If you are riding a motorcycle in traffic, you should always be aware of your surroundings and prepared to react. In addition, you should always wear a helmet. Not only is it required by Ontario law, it could be the only thing between you and a catastrophic brain injury in the case of an accident.

If you have a close relative who was killed in a motorcycle accident by a negligent car driver, you may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Motorcyclists have the same rights to the road as regular cars and trucks, but they are much more vulnerable and car drivers should always exercise caution when driving near one.

Schedule Your Free Personal Injury Consultation

If you have been injured, or if your loved one has been killed, in a traffic accident that was not your fault, contact Findlay Personal Injury Lawyers today at 905-522-9799 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. We serve clients in Ontario, including Hamilton, Burlington, Stoney Creek, Brantford, and Niagara Falls.