On Feb. 6, the Governors Highway Safety Association issued a report outlining ways that road safety could be improved in West Virginia and across the United States. The purpose of the report, “State Strategies to Reduce Highway and Traffic Fatalities and Injuries: A Road Map for States,” is to increase awareness about traffic safety and recommend strategies that state governors can use to reduce traffic injuries and fatalities.

In 2016, traffic accidents claimed the lives of 37,461 people, which represents a 5.6 percent increase over 2015. In addition, traffic deaths increased in 39 states. The GHSA report addresses the top causes of those increases and identifies proven methods that states can use to improve road safety and save lives.

The recommendations are designed to help governors and state lawmakers develop policies that address the specific needs of each state. According to the report, governors are in a unique position to coordinate traffic safety efforts statewide and can encourage collaboration between state agencies, law enforcement, emergency services personnel and safety experts. The goal of the report is to help states achieve zero traffic deaths in the future.

Victims of car accidents can suffer catastrophic injuries that require extensive medical treatment. These injuries can leave the victim unable to work for weeks or months. In some cases, they may be left with a permanent disability. In order to recover financial compensation for such losses, a car crash victim might file a personal injury lawsuit against the negligent driver who caused the accident. This type of suit may lead to a financial settlement that covers current and future medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering and other related damages. A personal injury attorney may review a victim’s case and explain the lawsuit process.