Good news is hard to come by when it comes to road safety, but here’s something worth noting: fewer people are losing their lives in car accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), traffic fatalities dropped by 4.4% in the first nine months of 2024. That means an estimated 29,135 people lost their lives in crashes, down from 30,490 in the same period in 2023.
While any progress is welcome, the numbers still paint a sobering picture. Every one of those deaths represents someone’s parent, child, friend, or loved one. And while fewer fatalities suggest improvements in enforcement, vehicle safety, and road design, there’s still work to be done.
Roadway safety is an ongoing process
NHTSA Deputy Administrator Sophie Shulman made it clear that the agency remains focused on reducing traffic deaths. "While we’re encouraged by the continued decline in traffic fatalities, our work is far from done," said Shulman. "NHTSA remains deeply committed to reducing traffic fatalities by embracing the safe system approach and striving for the day when we will see zero deaths on our nation’s roads."
Some states have seen significant declines in fatal crashes, but others have experienced the opposite. Understanding these patterns can help drivers, lawmakers, and safety advocates take action to make roads safer for everyone. Fortunately, Maryland was one of the states that saw a decline, but there's still more progress to be made.
Maryland traffic fatalities decrease in 2024
In 2023, Maryland recorded 473 fatal crashes, while in 2024, there were 443, a 6.3% decrease. These numbers suggest Maryland’s focus on safer driving habits and infrastructure improvements is making a difference.
Additionally, several factors likely contributed to the decline, including:
- Stricter law enforcement efforts targeting reckless driving.
- Expanded road safety awareness campaigns emphasizing defensive driving.
- Technological advancements in collision avoidance systems and driver assistance features in newer vehicles.
However, the traffic fatalities we currently see in Maryland and other states point to possible factors such as:
- Distracted driving: Texting, talking on the phone, and adjusting in-car entertainment systems take drivers’ attention away from the road.
- Speeding: Higher speeds increase the force of impact in crashes, which makes them more deadly.
- Drunk driving: Impaired judgment and slowed reaction times make alcohol-related crashes particularly dangerous.
- Reckless driving: Aggressive behaviors like running red lights, tailgating, and weaving through traffic put everyone at risk.
What are my legal options after a serious car accident in Maryland?
If the worst has happened and you've lost a loved one in a fatal accident, no amount of money can replace them. However, seeking justice can help ease the financial burden and hold the at-fault party accountable. In Maryland, car accident victims can file a personal injury claim to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you're grieving the loss of a family member, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim to cover funeral costs, loss of income, and the emotional impact of your loss.
Unfortunately, insurance companies don’t make it easy. Maryland’s contributory negligence law allows them to deny claims if they can prove you were even 1% at fault, and they’ll do everything they can to shift the blame. That's why it's important to start building your case as soon as possible. If you were injured, seek immediate medical attention, get witness contact information, and take pictures of the crash scene.
Also, keep all medical records, receipts, prescriptions, and appointment logs. Never provide a recorded statement to the other driver's insurance company without consulting with an attorney first. Anything you say can be used against you, even if you think your statements are harmless.
Contact a Maryland car accident lawyer today
Maryland law gives accident victims only three years to file a lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to seek compensation. But even within those three years, evidence can disappear, and witnesses can forget important details pertaining to your crash. The sooner you speak to a Maryland car accident lawyer, the stronger your case will be.
The attorneys at Goldberg Finnegan have recovered over $150 million for clients, including a $4,975,000 result for a family as part of a car accident wrongful death claim.
We know how life-changing a serious car accident can be, and we’re here to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Whether you were hurt in Silver Spring, College Park, or anywhere in Maryland, we’re ready to take on the insurance companies and protect your rights every step of the way.
If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a car accident, don’t face this battle alone. Contact us today for a free consultation. We'll answer any questions you have and discuss your potential legal options, and there is no obligation to hire us. We also offer legal representation on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.
"Kevin Finnegan and Cody are a dynamic duo/team who worked extra hard and overtime to make sure my case was settled properly and fairly! I strongly recommend Goldberg Finnegan for settling a law case when you need someone on your team." — C.P., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐