Highway accidents are among the deadliest collisions on United States roads, so it’s important to know how to protect yourself.
Understanding highway safety could mean the difference between life and death when operating your vehicle. Keep reading to learn more information about these crashes and what you can do to stay safe.
Accident Statistics
According to the Association for Safe International Road Travel, more than 38,000 lives are lost every year on United States roads, and 4.4 million are injured enough to seek medical attention. Additionally, road crashes cause up to 380 million dollars annually in medical costs.
Causes of Highway Accidents
Many different factors regularly contribute to highway accidents. Here are some of the most common causes and how to avoid them:
- Drowsy driving – Traveling for long stretches on a highway can be very uneventful, which might lead to heavy eyelids and dozing off. According to the CDC, 1 in 25 adult drivers have fallen asleep at the wheel at some point over the past 30 days. Before heading out on the road, make sure that you are well-rested and energized.
- Distracted driving – A lengthy excursion on the highway can make a driver feel tired, but it can also cause their mind to wander. Even though long stretches of road may seem inherently safe, many hazards can cause accidents if you’re not paying close attention. Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of vehicle accidents, so always be aware and attentive when traveling.
- Night driving – Some drivers like to drive at night to avoid heavy traffic and other hazards; however, night driving itself can be a danger. Not only is it more challenging to stay awake, but visibility worsens at night. Make sure to use your full lights when driving on rural highways to increase distinguishability.
Highway Safety Essentials
There are many steps that drivers can take to ensure safety when traveling on U.S. highways. Here are some safety features needed to certify a safe trip:
- Airbags – Airbags are essential for safety when you are traveling on a highway, and in 2017, they saved 2,790 lives alone. Airbags reduce the fatality rate by 59 percent when used in conjunction with seatbelts.
- Child safety seats – Car and booster seats are essential for little ones when driving anywhere, but are especially important for long-distance trips. According to the NHSTA, car seats saved the lives of 325 children in 2017 alone. Car seats are most effective when they are installed properly and sized correctly. Use this guide to help you find the right car safety seat for your child.
- Helmets – If you are traveling by motorcycle, a proper helmet is a necessity that can save your life. The NHSTA estimates that more than 25,000 lives have been saved by wearing motorcycle helmets since 2002. Follow this guide to ensure you are using the correct helmet.
Contact Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton Personal Injury Lawyers
If you or a loved one has been the victim of reparations resulting from highway accidents, Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton can help. We have spent over 25 years supporting Utah citizens in gaining fair compensation after car accidents, and our lawyers are eager to help you with your case.
We have offices in Provo, Orem, Saratoga Springs, and West Jordan, Utah. Give us a call today to get in touch with a car accident lawyer that will be by your side every step of the way.