Across the nation in more than 40 states, Americans are under some type of “stay-at-home” order. While there have been some small but media-highlighted protests against these orders, studies show that most Americans are supportive and obeying the orders. You would think that with so many people at home, and fewer going out and driving on our roads, that number of traffic and car accidents would be reduced, as well. While there has been a drop in accidents, they have not completely gone away.
Drastic Measures Taken
The economy remains at a standstill – a self-imposed one due to the Coronavirus pandemic – as unprecedented numbers of Americans are working from home, only going out as essential workers, or without employment at all. The result is that fewer consumers are out and about running errands, fewer workers are commuting to and from their place of work, and children have stopped going to schools and daycares. The reason behind these extreme measures is simple — protection of public health. The economic effects, however bad and however long, are secondary and collateral to stopping the spread of the coronavirus.
The effects of the near-national shutdown have been many — a 20% unemployment rate, nearly 5% drop in gross domestic product (GDP) for the quarter, a drastic drop in gas prices, and a significant dip in traffic. An ancillary result is that there has been a drop car accident-related injuries. This trend is showing in states across the nation.
Less Cars, Yet More Reckless Driving
Although a drop in car accidents is encouraging news for all of us, studies are showing that car accident deaths have not decreased as significantly as expected. In fact, risky driving behavior has increased since the global pandemic across the nation, and Nevada is no exception to this trend.
The state of Nevada has one of the most aggressive and earliest imposed stay-at-home orders in response to the Coronavirus pandemic. On March 20, 2020 Governor Steve Sisolak required the closure of:
- Schools;
- Casinos
- Restaurants;
- Cafeterias;
- Bars;
- Wineries;
- Breweries;
- Nightclubs;
- Live entertainment venues;
- Strip clubs and brothels;
- Large conference halls;
- Coffee shops;
- Gyms and recreation centers;
- Shopping malls;
- Other retail other than pharmacies, grocery stores, and others; and
- Salons and various other beauty-oriented businesses.
As a result of the shut-down, the state of Nevada has seen a decline in traffic accidents by about 50% and nearly the same drop in car accident-related fatalities. While a decrease in the numbers is a positive, the Nevada Department of Public Safety (NDPS) notes that the car accident-related fatalities were primarily the result of impaired driving, speeding, and failure to use safety belts.
Our Attorneys are Here
Getting involved in a car accident can be scary and stressful. If you or someone you know has been hurt in a Nevada accident during Coronavirus, contact the skilled Las Vegas personal injury attorneys at Matt Pfau Law Group. We are open and can explain your rights and obligations under the law. Contact us today to learn how we can fight for the compensation you deserve.
