According to numbers from the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission, there was a record low 720 highway traffic deaths last year in the state. It is the third year in a row that traffic deaths in Louisiana dropped from the previous year.
In a report at nola.com, the 720 deaths are the lowest since LSU researchers began compiling statistics in 1984. The highest number of highway traffic deaths in the state’s history was 993 in 2007, according to the report. In 2008, there were 915 deaths, and 824 deaths in 2009. Moreover, the 2011 numbers could be even better than last year. As of August of this year, 466 people have died on the state’s highways, which is eight less than by August of 2010.
The numbers include motorcycle deaths as well, which are also down from the previous year. In 2009, 104 people died in motorcycle crashes. That dropped to 42 deaths in 2010. The state made it through the peak motorcycle season of spring and summer without an increase in crash deaths.
Experts say the drop in highway deaths is from safer roads, safer vehicles, seat belt use, careful drivers and police enforcement of traffic laws.
Despite all the talk of distracted driving, what is your opinion on Louisiana’s decrease in highway crash deaths?
Harrell & Nowak, L.L.C. – New Orleans accident lawyers