As a personal injury lawyer serving Oakland, California, it’s disheartening to witness the consistent prevalence of fatal accidents in our city.
In 2021, the United States saw a staggering 42,915 traffic-related deaths, marking the highest number in 16 years and a 10.5% increase from the previous year.
Oakland is no exception to this alarming trend, with common causes of catastrophic and fatal accidents including speeding, failure to yield, dangerous turns, running red lights, and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
These accidents disproportionately impact Oakland’s Priority Equity communities, as 68% of the High Injury Network falls within these high-risk areas.
The good news is that these devastating collisions can be prevented with focused, targeted, and comprehensive approaches. In response to this urgent issue, the Safe Oakland Streets (SOS) initiative was established in 2021.
The SOS core team comprises the Oakland Department of Transportation (OakDOT), City Administrator’s Office (CAO), Oakland Police Department (OPD), and Department of Race and Equity (DRE). Together, they collaborate on strategies aimed at preventing serious and fatal traffic accidents and eradicating crash disparities throughout Oakland’s roadways.
To promote transparency and monitor traffic fatalities in the city, the OakDOT and OPD introduced a dedicated webpage in October 2022 in support of the SOS initiative. This page, which features an interactive map and table, is regularly updated to keep the public informed about the ongoing efforts to create safer streets in Oakland.
For more information on the Safe Oakland Streets initiative, visit the OakDOT SOS webpage and stay up to date with the latest statistics on traffic fatalities in our city.
The Causes of Fatal Accidents in Oakland in 2023 YTD
In 2023, Oakland has witnessed a variety of tragic accidents that have resulted in the loss of life. Among the most prevalent causes of these fatal incidents are pedestrian accidents, where vulnerable individuals on foot are struck by motor vehicles.
Bicyclist accidents also account for a significant portion of fatalities, as cyclists navigate the streets alongside cars and trucks.
Furthermore, we have seen numerous cases where drivers themselves have lost their lives due to devastating collisions. Passengers, too, have faced tragic outcomes when involved in severe accidents. The peril extends to motorcyclists as well, who often face a higher risk on the road due to their reduced visibility and protection.
In addition to these more common causes, other motorized users, such as those operating ATVs or scooters, have also been fatally injured. Lastly, other non-motorized users, like skateboarders or those using wheelchairs, have tragically lost their lives in accidents on Oakland’s streets. It’s essential that we continue to raise awareness about these various causes and work together to create a safer environment for everyone.
Have You Lost a Loved One? GJEL Is Here To Help
We understand that losing a loved one to a fatal accident is an incredibly challenging and heartbreaking experience. As a personal injury law firm serving Oakland and the surrounding neighborhoods, GJEL Accident Attorneys is committed to helping families affected by wrongful death incidents seek justice and obtain the compensation they deserve.
We have proudly represented many families throughout Oakland, including nearby neighborhoods such as Temescal, Rockridge, Montclair, Glenview, and Fruitvale. Our dedicated and compassionate team of attorneys is here to guide you through this difficult time and ensure that your family’s rights are protected.
If you have lost a loved one in a tragic accident, we invite you to contact GJEL Accident Attorneys for a free case review. Our office is conveniently located at 11 Embarcadero West #133, Oakland, CA 94607. You can also reach us by phone at 510-839-0707. We are here to support you and provide the legal expertise needed to navigate this challenging journey.
Together, we can honor the memory of your loved one and work tirelessly to make Oakland’s streets safer for everyone.