Is the Oil Boom to Blame for North Dakota Fatal Car Accidents Rising

According to local law enforcement, North Dakota fatal car accidents are rising in the Northwestern region of North Dakota. Part of the blame is being placed on the oil boom, creating more traffic in the area. Other causes of these fatal car accidents remain the same and include drinking, distracted drivers, and speeding.

Between 2008 and 2010, accidents across the state seemed fairly proportional, however, after 2010 the Northwest region has seen quite an increase. According to reports in 2010, 54 of the state’s 130 fatal collisions, or 41.5 percent, were in the Northwest region. By 2012, that percentage has increased to 47.6 percent of the state’s total fatal incidents.

So far this year, there have been a total of 29 deaths due to fatal accidents, 17 of those occurred in the Northwest portion of the state. While the state has been working on improving roadways, more improvements are needed. On the other hand, it is reported that 90 percent of these fatal collisions are related to behavior behind the wheel, so educating the public on safer driving habits is also important.

Fatal car accidents bring significant grief and financial hardship to the families of those who’ve lost their lives. If the cause of death is determined to be due to the negligence of another, wrongful death claims may be filed on behalf of these victims. If the drivers deemed responsible for these collisions are found liable, North Dakota courts could grant the victim’s families monetary compensation for the tragic losses of their loved ones and assist in recouping the financial losses suffered as a result.

Source: bismarcktribune.com, “Needless death toll on N.D. highways“, May 11, 2014.