Safety coalition aims to eliminate traffic deaths by 2050

There are roughly 100 deaths per day on the roadways throughout California and the rest of the country. According to the Road to Zero Coalition, all of these deaths are preventable. That's why the coalition has set a goal of eliminating all traffic deaths by the year 2050. The CEO of the National Safety Council understands that the target date may be ambitious. However, she pointed out that sending a man to the moon seemed like an ambitious goal as well 50 years ago.

The group understands that both commercial and passenger vehicles have a role to play as it relates to cutting down on traffic deaths. For instance, all drivers should wear seat belts. While 90 percent of drivers do so today, those who don't wear safety belts account for 50 percent of traffic fatalities. Getting people the care that they need after an accident can also cut down on traffic deaths.

Of those who pass away, 43 percent are alive in the immediate aftermath of the accident. However, they are unable to get to a trauma center in time. This tends to be more of a problem in rural areas where these centers are farther away. Finally, taking action against distracted and impaired driving can help to reduce the number of traffic fatalities in the United States.

If speeding, alcohol or driver fatigue play a role in an accident, an injured victim may be entitled to compensation. In the event that a person dies in a crash, a representative of that person's estate may file a wrongful death suit. In either scenario, a plaintiff may be able to receive reimbursement for medical bills, lost wages and lost future earnings. Legal counsel could help fight for a fair settlement.