Auto accidents are an unfortunate risk that we all take when driving a vehicle. Whether it’s a distracted driver or a drunk driver behind the wheel, many people lose their lives on the road. In fact, according to statistics released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were an estimated 42,915 fatalities due to motor vehicle crashes in 2021.
Fortunately, not all car crashes end in a fatality. The NHTSA reported over 5.25 million car crashes across the United States over the course of 2020. This translates to over 14,000 accidents per day in the United States alone. Keep in mind that this data was collected during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when more people were staying in their homes and off the roads. In this mostly post-pandemic world, the statistics will likely be even higher.
But notice the wide disparity between the number of car accidents and fatalities. What about those who survive an accident but are injured in the process? What are your chances when it comes to injury in an auto accident? Out of the 5.25 million crashes in 2020, over 1.5 million sustained non-fatal injuries. The rest walked away unscathed with only property damages.
So what can you do to lower your chances of becoming the victim of an auto accident in the first place? Let’s take a look at some practical driving tips and safety advice:
• Stay Alert. It pays to be on alert and at attention at all times while driving. You never know when someone might swerve into your lane or walk in front of your car. Be ready with your brakes, and have an escape route should something go wrong on the road in front of you.
• Keep a Safe Distance. Tailgating is dangerous and bothersome to the people who are driving. Keep a safe distance from the car on the road in front of you. That way, if they need to stop suddenly for any reason, you’ll have plenty of time to slow down before smashing into the back of their vehicle.
• Follow Driving Laws. You can’t always rely on other drivers to obey the law or even practice common safety measures, but you can control your own driving. Be sure to observe speed limits, eliminate distractions, and use signals when turning or changing lanes.
If you are one of the millions of Americans who have been injured in a car crash, you should seek representation immediately. Contact us here at Wayne Hardee Law, and our team of skilled attorneys will review the details of your case. You may be entitled to compensation for any outstanding medical bills and loss of wages. We’re here to help!
