We all know speeding comes with a ticket, but the cost goes far deeper. Behind the statistics of accidents and fines lie the shattered lives of victims and their families.
According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the state recorded 989 fatalities on its roadways in 2023. Notably, this is the first year since 2019 that Missouri has experienced a decline in roadway fatalities. However, the prevalence of speed and other aggressive driving behaviors remains a significant concern, contributing to more than half of the total fatalities.
This article discusses the human cost of speeding in our city. Through the powerful stories of victims, we’ll explore the lasting impact these accidents have on individuals and families.
The Impact on Victims’ Lives
The impact of speeding accidents on victims and their families is immeasurable. They leave behind a trail of devastation that extends far beyond physical injuries.
Personal stories from victims and families offer a poignant glimpse into the profound disruption to their lives. According to Spectrum News, one such story involves 17-year-old Janae Edmondson. Edmondson was a high school volleyball player whose legs were severed in a car crash caused by 22-year-old Daniel Riley’s reckless driving.
The jury found Riley guilty of armed criminal action and second-degree assault, recommending a sentence of nearly 19 years. Janae underwent 29 surgeries and suffered multiple serious internal injuries, a fractured pelvis, and the loss of both legs, enduring unimaginable pain and trauma.
Similarly, according to KSDK, the case of Monte Henderson underscores the tragic consequences of speeding accidents. Prosecutors allege that Henderson was traveling at least 70 mph when he fatally struck a Chicago mother and daughter at an intersection.
The victims, in town for a Drake concert, were pedestrians at the time of the crash. Henderson’s attorney revealed that he was on his way to pick up his mother from the same concert on the night of the accident. Prosecutors noted Henderson’s history of speeding violations, further highlighting the recklessness of his actions.
As these families grapple with the aftermath of senseless tragedies, their stories serve as a sobering reminder of the need for safer driving practices.
Legal Options and Support for Victims
In the aftermath of a speeding-related accident, victims and their families may explore legal avenues to seek justice and compensation. Personal injury attorneys specializing in traffic accidents can provide invaluable support and guidance throughout the legal process.
These attorneys possess expertise in navigating the complexities of personal injury law and can advocate tirelessly on behalf of their clients.
By hiring a St. Louis personal injury attorney, victims and their families gain access to professional legal representation that is dedicated to maximizing their recovery. An attorney can help gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and litigate in court if necessary to secure fair compensation.
Furthermore, TorHoerman Law notes that a personal injury attorney can offer crucial emotional support and reassurance during a challenging and overwhelming time. They can handle the legal complexities, allowing victims and their families to focus on healing and rebuilding their lives.
Government Initiatives to Improve Traffic Safety
The City of St. Louis has taken proactive measures to enhance traffic safety, particularly in areas prone to speeding-related incidents.
According to Fox 2 Now, an open house for the Gravois Avenue Study was held to uncover plans for improvements. These improvements are aimed at curbing speeding and enhancing overall traffic safety.
The plans include curb extensions, block pedestrian crossings, center median islands, and left turn striping. These measures were identified through traffic study results as effective measures to mitigate speeding risks.
However, while these initiatives offer hope for improved traffic safety, residents have expressed concerns and called for revisions to the proposed solutions. A resident, Alderwoman Cara Spencer, advocates for a more comprehensive approach to transportation planning. She emphasized the need for long-term investment and dedicated funding sources to address street infrastructure and traffic safety comprehensively.
These efforts demonstrate a commitment to addressing speeding-related incidents. However, ongoing collaboration between government officials and community stakeholders remains crucial to developing effective and sustainable solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the economic cost per person living in the US due to vehicle collisions?
The economic cost per person in the US due to vehicle collisions is $1,035. This figure, totaling $340 billion, accounts for 1.6% of the $21.4 trillion real US gross domestic product for 2019. It highlights the substantial financial impact of motor vehicle crashes on individuals and the economy.
What is the cost of an accident?
The cost of an accident comprises fixed and variable expenses. Fixed costs, like insurance and legal fees, remain unchanged. Variable costs, such as medical treatment and lost productivity, fluctuate with each accident. Both types encompass expenses like equipment damage and reputation loss, contributing to the overall financial burden.
What are the main causes of accidents?
The main causes of accidents include distracted driving, speeding, drunk driving, and adverse weather conditions. Other factors like reckless behavior, fatigue, and mechanical failures also contribute to accidents. Understanding these causes is crucial for implementing preventive measures and promoting safer driving habits on the roadways.
What is the car crash rate in the US?
In the United States, there are nearly 43,000 fatal crashes annually, accounting for less than 1% of the total car crash rate. In 2021 alone, there were approximately 6,102,936 police-reported vehicle accidents. These statistics underscore the prevalence of car crashes and their impact on road safety and public health.
In conclusion, speeding isn’t just about saving a few minutes on your commute. It’s a gamble with devastating consequences. The stories shared here are a stark reminder of the human cost hidden within the statistics.
We can honor the memory of those lost and prevent future tragedies by making a collective commitment to safe driving. By slowing down, following the rules, and prioritizing safety, we can all play a part in creating a more peaceful and predictable environment. Let’s choose to arrive alive, for ourselves, for our loved ones, and for our community.
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