As the weather warms up, there is an increase in car accidents. Even though the roads are safer in terms of weather conditions, there are more people on the roads. People also tend to spend more time out in bars and night clubs. Teen drivers are also out for summer break. All of these factors contribute to the rise in auto accidents during the summer months. Remember to practice these safe driving habits as spring turns into summer.
Avoid electronic temptations
At any given daylight moment across America, approximately 660,000 drivers are using cell phones or manipulating electronic devices while driving. Many studies have shown that distracted driving is very similar to that of drunk driving. Both take your attention away from the road. It only takes a split second to be involved in an auto accident. Because of the increase in distracted driving auto accidents, many cities are releasing awareness campaigns and attempting to make operating an automobile with an electronic device illegal.
If you are charged with using your phone and causing an auto accident, you may need to consult with a car accident attorney. You may face charges worse than the initial auto accident, especially if electronic usage is illegal in that specific city. The laws also tend to be tricky, whereas texting may be illegal in one area, while communicating on the phone is not. It also may be important to decipher the legalities of your actions when they are connected to your vehicle. With technology being so new, the laws are still be evolved and may not always be entirely clear. Your car accident lawyer can help you with this.
Monitor teen driving habits
Perhaps the hardest part about a new teen driver is that they are not yet experienced enough to handle all situations on the road. Over time, they will increase their experiences and become more knowledgeable, but in the meantime, they must drive on their own to gain the experience. Teens are also more likely to engage in drunk driving and distracted driving. They are not always aware of the possible consequences.
Attempt to monitor your teens driving habits. Only allow them onto the road when they are aware of the rules of the road and have demonstrated their responsibility. Ensure they have proper training surrounding DUI laws and that they have a backup plan. Also, prepare them for the appropriate steps to take immediately following an auto accident. Otherwise, you might require a car accident attorney when an accident does occur and it is their fault.
Watch for construction workers
Another common cause of auto accidents involves construction barriers. Many states heavily begin construction projects on many of their roads as soon as spring hits. They may only have a limited time to complete the work, so it may be a common theme throughout many of your streets. Most construction areas are posted for miles, notifying you of the upcoming delays. These construction areas also tend to carry strict punishments for not following the signs, mostly for the safety of the construction workers.
However, although drivers tend to be more careful when workers are present, they are not always aware of surrounding vehicles. Many rear end auto accidents occur during stop and go construction areas. If you were involved in an auto accident in a construction area, it is important that you utilize the services of a car accident attorney. Your auto accident lawyer will be an important part in receiving a fair sentencing. A disability lawyer may also be needed if injuries were suffered by either party involved in the accident.
Auto accidents are fairly common. About 90 people died each day in motor vehicle crashes in 2014, and 6,400 people were injured. The numbers do appear to be decreasing, however. In 2014, 32,675 people died in motor vehicle crashes, down 0.7% from 32,894 in 2013, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. When an auto accident does occur, it is important to protect your rights and receive fair compensation. Hiring a car accident attorney can help you navigate the tricky legal system when specifically dealing with auto accidents.
