ALARMING NUMBER OF FATAL CAR WRECKS IN BEAUMONT, TEXAS

ON BEHALF OF THE BERNSEN LAW FIRM

November 15, 2013 – Based on the size of our city, Beaumont ranks near the top of U.S cities with a population over 100,000 in an unpopular category – motor vehicle death rates. According to the Center for Disease Control, Morbidity and Mortality Report, as of 2012, Beaumont, Texas, ranked 8^th in the nation in car wreck death rates for cities with a population over 100,000. There are approximately 22.9 vehicle deaths per 100,000 citizens in our city. What causes some cities to have a higher vehicle death rate may depend on an infinite number of factors. We simply can’t believe that we are unable to drive as well as our peers in other cities – just think, we don’t even have the terrible winter weather to contend with.

It is interesting to note that these statistics were provided by data collected prior to the newly increased speed limits. Whether speed limit increases are a good idea is a task left better to the Legislature. However, it will be interesting to see how the 2013 statistics differ from the 2012 statistics. Will the increase in speed be reflected in those numbers?

The first place to look is Interstate 10 and the Eastex Freeway. Both are major highways in the State of Texas and they just happen to be the major arteries of Beaumont. Day and night countless motorists travel these highways. One wonders how many of these deaths may be attributable to out-of-towners simply passing through the city? Do these statistics take into account the number of folks who pass through Beaumont on any given day?

Rest assured that Beaumont is not alone in its representation on this unpopular list. Fort Worth was ranked 4^th, Corpus Christi was 9^th and Dallas followed in at 14^th.

My sincere hope is that we do not appear on the 2013 list and if we do, we start taking an in-depth look as to why. I get chill bumps every time I see the highway signs indicating the number of fatal accidents in our great State. But unfortunately, as a realist, I know these accidents occur at an alarming rate. One can say accidents happen. Another may say accidents can be avoided. All accidents are different and the causes involved are all different.

If you have been injured or if a loved one has been injured or killed as a result of a car accident, rest assured that our team of attorneys is ready to help. We understand the need to protect your rights and to get you the compensation that you deserve.

NOTE: This information is not legal advice. It is provided for educational use only. If you need legal representation for a personal injury, please contact the Bernsen Law Firm at 409-212-9994.