Drivers in Virginia Beach and surrounding areas may already know how risky it is to be on the roads these days. Traffic seems heavier, vehicles are larger, and speeds are faster in recent years. These may be some reasons why the rate of fatal accidents seems to be climbing alarmingly fast. Add to these factors the negligence and reckless actions of many drivers, and families may end up facing the difficult process of seeking compensation through wrongful death claims.
Nationwide, police officers may respond to countless horrific scenes during their careers, and it is no different in this state. However, local law enforcement has noticed a disturbing uptick in fatalities on the highways. In a single month, first responders handled five fatal accidents, four of which involved drivers impaired by alcohol. The other accident resulted when two drivers who were racing struck and killed a man on a bicycle.
Statistics don’t tell the whole story
At the end of last year, police in Virginia Beach responded to 19 fatal accidents. So far this year, 21 people have died in motor vehicle accidents. Unfortunately, police fear the worst is yet to come. With fewer hours of daylight, winter weather on the way and holiday travelers hitting the road, it is likely more families will be facing the sorrowful presence of a police officer at their door, bringing news of a fatal accident.
Those who lose loved ones in motor vehicle accidents may feel overwhelmed with grief and look for productive ways to channel that emotion. Often, a successful wrongful death claim in civil court can have a two-fold benefit. It may hold a negligent driver responsible for his or her actions, and it may provide some measure of financial compensation for the tremendous loss the death of a loved one brings.
