• 08
  • November
    2011

The auto group AAA evaluated the costs following a fatal car accident and put the financial expenses at $6 million. The amount includes the costs to friends and family members of a loved one, as well lost wages, property damage, medical costs, legal expenses, pain and lost quality of life. The costs of an injury-only crash average around $126,000.

The AAA reported that the costs of a fatal car accident greatly exceed the costs of excessive traffic congestion. Cities with more serious traffic congestion see expenses of $97.7 billion whereas fatal crashes in the same cities total $299.5 billion. According to USA Today, the study "is designed to push road safety to the forefront of the national debate over transportation priorities as Congress considers a long-term highway funding bill," a AAA spokesperson said.

The costs following an accident with fatalities have risen since the last report in 2005. Medical expenses likely attribute to the sharp increase. Car accidents are also the leading cause of death for Americans ages 5-34, according to USA Today.

Fatal car accidents in Florida do more than cause serious emotional harm to the family of the loved one killed in the crash. These fatal crashes are financially debilitating for the family. Filing a wrongful death suit after a fatal car accident can help the family recoup lost expenses such as medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering damages.

Source: USA Today, "AAA: Fatal motor vehicle crash costs $6 million," Larry Copeland, 11/3/2011