2016 Worst Year for Overdose Deaths in U.S. History

Feb 02,2018

The news on the opioid epidemic just continues to worsen. A new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals that the U.S. had more overdose deaths in 2016 than any other year in history.

According to the report, more than 63,600 deaths in the U.S. resulted from drug overdoses in 2016. That number represents a 21% increase from just one year prior. More than 42,200 of those deaths were linked to opioids. Moreover, the overdose rate from synthetic opioids, such as fentanyl, doubled in that one year. For the first time, the deadliest drugs were these synthetic opioids—linked to more than 19,400 deaths in 2016. The epidemic is even affecting the nation’s life expectancy. For the second year in a row, life expectancy in the U.S. dropped. This is in part a result of a rise in unintentional injuries, including overdoses.

Last year, President Trump declared the opioid epidemic a national health emergency. However, despite the declaration, not much has been done on a federal level in response. The administration proposed no new funding to address the crisis.

States on the Frontlines of the Crisis

Fortunately, many states have begun to take action. According to the Pew Charitable Trusts, at least 39 states now require medical professionals to check prescription databases before authorizing patients to use highly addictive opioids. Additionally, at least 47 states are now sharing monitor data to prevent physicians from prescribing to addicts who have crossed state lines.

“This latest report on overdose deaths is deeply troubling. Medical professionals, citizens and lawmakers need to come together to address this epidemic,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the California personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured by a drug and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today at (760) 777-7777 for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, and Yucca Valley and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.