While the coronavirus pandemic might have reduced the number of drivers on the road, the Missouri Highway Patrol reports that deadly car accidents are up 11% this year as compared to the same time in 2019. While it is surprising to learn, many car accidents occur in the same limited type of places. These car accidents also have various other elements in common.
Common Locations Where Car Accidents Occur
When car accidents happen, they tend to occur in several common spots, which include:
- Parking lots. While they are not the deadliest type of accident, parking lot collisions are a common occurrence because so many vehicles are placed in close proximity and many drivers are often moving in opposite directions.
- Rural highways. These are a common location for single-vehicle accidents because drivers often operate vehicles while distracted or fall asleep and end up colliding with stationary objects like trees or going off the road.
- Stop signs. Stop signs are critical traffic instructions that all drivers must follow. It is common, however, for drivers to ignore stop signs and roll right through intersections, which can lead to deadly collisions.
- Two-lane roads. The shoulders of these roads are often smaller than on larger highways. As a result, it is common for drivers to enter the opposing lane of traffic, which often results in head-on crashes that result in fatalities.
When Car Accidents Tend to Happen
Not only do car accidents tend to happen at similar locations, but they also often occur during similar times. Consider the following risk factors:
- Statistics reveal that the most dangerous times to drive are afternoons on weekdays, during which time there is often the greatest amount of motorists on the road due to the commute home after the workday.
- During the summer, a larger number of motorists are likely to explore Missouri while more people remain indoors during the winter. As a result, more car accidents occur during the summer rather than the winter.
- Some holidays including Independence Day and New Year’s Day see a remarkably large number of motor vehicle accidents.
Tips on Avoiding Car Accidents
There is no one strategy that can completely eliminate your chances of ending up in a car accident during one of these times or in one of these locations, but there are several things that you can do to greatly increase your chances of staying safe:
- Remain cautious about your driving habits. Every time that you get into your vehicle, stay alert, and remain cautious. This means eliminating distracted driving patterns.
- By keeping your vehicle well maintained, you can greatly reduce your chances of ending up in a car accident.
Speak With an Experienced Car Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one were injured in a Missouri car accident, it is tempting to retain the services of the first lawyer you can find. It is important, however, to make sure that your attorney has the skill and experience necessary to obtain the compensation you deserve. Contact House Law LLC today to schedule a free case evaluation.
Tags: auto accident, car accidents
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