3 Surprising Facts About Automobile Accidents — Car Crash Attorneys
Driving is generally straightforward. Driving over the speed limit or under the influence can increase your risks of getting in a collision and so do distractions or drowsiness. However, common sense isn’t always an accurate predictor. Case in point: driving during summer may be considered more dangerous than during winter.
We’ll explain why in a minute.
Here are three car accident facts that seem to defy logic.
More Accidents Happen in the Summer Than in the Winter
Driving conditions during winter are harsh. Snow, heavy winds, and slippery roads are known to increase the risks of accidents. So, obviously, you would think that most car crashes happen during this period.
However, one study found that out of the 35,000 fatalities that occur in the U.S every year, only 6% of them happen in February. The percentage increases to 9% during June and July before reaching its peak in August at over 10%. After that, the number of fatalities begins to decrease as the cooler months approach.
Here’s why that happens. For starters, there are more drivers on the roads and congested streets make driving more complicated. The roads are also filled with vacationers, most of which are not familiar with the area. There are also more teens, motorcycles, and bicycles on the road, which means sharing the road with more inexperienced and vulnerable groups.
Most Accidents Occur Near Home
Studies show that about 75% of all car accidents happen within fifteen miles of home. Being in a place you are familiar with can give you a false sense of security. You’ve driven in this neighborhood countless times, so you know every turn and every corner, and you know what to expect. So, most people mentally switch to “autopilot”, meaning that they aren’t paying as much attention to what is happening around them. And, unfocused, distracted driving can lead to accidents.
Country Roads Are Generally More Dangerous Than Urban One’s
Driving in big cities can be a nightmare. There is a lot of chaos, people drive aggressively, and the traffic is insane. However, because the roads are so congested, the speed limits are generally low, and there are countless intersections, most accidents are just simple fender benders.
Although the number of collisions that occur on rural roads is smaller than in urban areas, the percentage of fatalities is significantly higher. The speed limits are higher and there are no barriers separating lanes. Moreover, going off the road usually means slamming into an object, like a tree.
Have You Been Involved in a Car Crash?
If you got injured because of another driver’s mistake, you may be entitled to compensation. Reach out to an experienced car accident attorney for legal advice. The wrong action right now can sabotage your chances of negotiating a fair settlement that accounts for present and future medical costs.
