Wisconsin Traffic Fatalities Increased in 2016

The number of deaths caused by fatal traffic accidents in Wisconsin increased by nearly six percent in 2016, according to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT).

The total number of traffic deaths for Wisconsin in 2016 was 588 fatalities, an increase of 33 deaths from 2015 and 40 more than the state’s five-year average.

Although the final statistics for the number of traffic fatalities in Wisconsin will not be released until spring 2017, WisDOT has released its preliminary findings for traffic deaths in 2016, which include:

The number of traffic fatalities in 2016 marks the highest in Wisconsin since 2012, when 601 people died in accidents along the state’s roads.

Improved economic conditions are believed to have contributed to the high number of traffic fatalities that occurred during 2016. Job creation and lower gas prices allowed more people to drive to work, which put more cars on the road traveling greater miles, according to David Pabst, director of WisDOT’s Bureau of Transportation Safety.

WisDOT believes that nearly 90 percent of accidents are caused by bad habits and poor decisions made by drivers, such as speeding and lack of seatbelt use.

Deaths caused by poor driving habits, such as distracted driving, have also been a major concern for state safety officials, as accidents caused by motorists who were distracted by smartphones and electronic devices increased in 2016.

Drunk driving has also contributed to the rise in traffic fatalities seen in Wisconsin during 2016, as more than 40 percent of the state’s drivers admitted in a survey conducted by AAA that they had operated a vehicle less than two hours after consuming alcohol.

Fatal car accidents are often caused by the negligence of other drivers and can easily be avoided. If you have lost someone you love due to another driver’s poor behavior behind the wheel, you may be able to take legal action.

The Milwaukee car accident attorneys at PKSD can help you file a claim that may award you compensation for medical bills, funeral costs, and pain and suffering. Your first consultation is always free and we will not charge any legal fees unless you receive a fair outcome.

Call 414-333-3333 to speak with an attorney about filing a claim.