San Bernardino County, CA has seen substantial growth since 1980 when it was home to just over 895,000 people. Presently, the population has surged to more than 2,180,000 residents. Despite its vast size, surpassing even some states like West Virginia, most of the population concentrates in areas closer to Los Angeles and Orange County rather than the expansive Mojave Desert. This rapid growth, especially in densely populated regions, has led to a significant increase in vehicular traffic and subsequently, a rise in auto accidents throughout San Bernardino County, particularly in the city of San Bernardino and its surrounding areas.
According to data from the California Office of Traffic Safety, in 2017, there were 15,104 reported injuries or fatalities due to motor vehicle accidents in San Bernardino County, with 1,429 incidents occurring within the city limits of San Bernardino itself. Nearby Fontana, poised to become the largest city in the county, witnessed 756 individuals injured or killed in traffic accidents during the same period. While the county ranked relatively low in accidents involving pedestrians or cyclists, it ranked among the top 10 for car accidents caused by underage drinking, resulting in 80 victims injured or killed.
Several factors contribute to the high rate of car accidents in San Bernardino County. The surge in population over recent decades has led to a significant increase in the number of vehicles on the roads, with many households now owning multiple cars. Additionally, the construction of numerous large warehouses and distribution centers has led to a substantial rise in truck traffic, not only in urban areas but also along major interstates like 10, 15, and 40.
Illegal street racing has emerged as another significant cause of catastrophic and fatal car accidents in the region, with the California Highway Patrol actively working to combat this dangerous behavior. Furthermore, the city of San Bernardino gained notoriety for leading the nation in drunk driving crashes between 2010-2012, with 94 auto accidents per 1,000 residents during that period.
For those seeking legal assistance following a car accident in San Bernardino, it's crucial to select the right personal injury lawyer. When evaluating potential attorneys, ask pertinent questions such as their experience with San Bernardino car accident cases, their involvement in handling your case, the expected timeline, the possibility of trial, fee structure, and what information they require to strengthen your case. Pay attention to their responses and assess their communication style to ensure a comfortable working relationship. Remember, you're hiring them to represent your interests, and first impressions are important.
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