Fatal Accidents Increased in the First Half of 2021


According to new data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 20,000 people were killed in traffic accidents in the U.S. from January through June of 2021. This is an increase of 18.4 percent compared to the same time period in 2020. Furthermore, the NHTSA says this is the largest six-month jump ever recorded in the agency’s history of fatal accident reporting.

An aerial view of an interstate in Austin TX with moderate traffic during the dayThese very sobering numbers are much more than just numbers. Each of those 20,160 fatalities represents a life taken in a way that was completely preventable, and a family shattered by the premature loss of a loved one.

At Shaw Cowart, we have worked with numerous families over the years who are dealing with the wrongful death of a spouse, sibling, child, grandparent, or other loved one taken from them in a motor vehicle accident caused by someone else’s negligence. We have seen just how devastating these situations are. Not only is the family of the deceased dealing with immeasurable grief, they also have the medical bills, loss of income, burial/cremation expenses, and funeral expenses to contend with. All of these damages ought to be fully compensated. We pursue justice and maximum compensation on behalf of our clients.

One of the most tragic aspects of these motor vehicle deaths is that they are largely preventable. The vast majority of crashes are a result of human error, and human error is often avoidable. Our attorneys urge the following as preventive measures:

  • Don’t speed
  • Don’t drink and drive
  • Don’t drive distracted
  • Always wear a seat belt
  • Insist your passengers wear a seat belt
  • Keep your eyes, hands, and mind on the task of driving

Unfortunately, there’s nothing we can do to control the behavior of other motorists on the road. Sometimes the most attentive of drivers finds themselves involved in an accident through no fault of their own.

Pursue Justice with the Guidance of an Experienced Attorney

For a review of your car accident case in Austin, TX, please call the experienced attorneys at Shaw Cowart at 512-499-8900. We are proud to advocate for car accident victims from throughout the state.