Motor vehicle accidents are one of the leading causes of death among healthy U.S. citizens. An estimated 2.5 million people are severely injured or permanently disabled every year, from an auto accident. As distracted driving trends arise, the number of motor vehicle accidents are drastically increasing. The most common causes of accidents resulting in death are drunk driving, speeding and distracted driving. Statistically most fatal crashes happen during weekends and on holidays.
The U.S. has more than 220 million licensed drivers and they all risk their lives every time they get into an automobile as driver or passenger. As drivers, it is our responsibility to ensure that we have proper auto insurance and that we follow traffic laws. It is important to check your insurance policy to make sure that you, your passengers, and everyone else involved receives proper treatment for injuries sustained in automobile accidents.
Distracted driving crashes have increased for both teen and adult drivers in the recent years. An estimated 60% of people use cell phones while driving. According to the https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/distracted-driving , texting is the most alarming distraction amongst drivers. Sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for 5 seconds. At 55 mph, that’s like driving the length of an entire football field with your eyes closed. Injuries sustained from distracted driving crashes are often catastrophic and fatal.
Tips and facts:
Facts:
- Most car accidents happen within 3-4 miles of your home.
- Almost half of all fatal car accidents involve alcohol.
- Seat belt laws exist in all 50 states.
Tips:
- Drive the speed limit.
- Do not run red lights or stop signs.
- Always call the police after an auto accident.
- Leave your phone on silent or off while driving.