If there ever was a year where getting in a car accident seemed like a distinct possibility, this would be it. An October report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reveals a 10.4 percent increase in traffic deaths in the first half of 2016 compared to the first half of 2015.

While it is still unclear what is behind the 2016 increase in traffic-related deaths, analysis of similar numbers from 2015 were found to have resulted from deaths stemming from motorcyclist, pedestrian and pedalcyclist accidents.

A 10.4 percent increase may not sound like a staggering number if you’re discussing retail discounts. But it’s important to remember that that percentage corresponds to 17,775 lives lost in the first half of 2016 alone. That’s between two and three thousand lives per month ended tragically and too soon. Those thousands of people often leave behind families who are left reeling emotionally and financially in the wake of the crash.

The recently announced “Road to Zero” initiative aims to reduce traffic death numbers to zero through a coordinated campaign emphasizing behavioral changes including seat belt and helmet use. As the recent traffic death numbers show, however, we have a long way to go to get from tens of thousands of deaths per year to zero.

Until we achieve zero deaths on the road, those who have lost a loved one in a traffic accident deserve strong and committed representation from a personal injury attorney who can help secure the maximum possible compensation for families in the wake of a senseless loss.