Car Accidents Impacted by Speed and Distracted Driving During Summer

Each time you get behind the wheel of a car or truck, you have a responsibility to yourself and others to operate your vehicle in a safe way that won’t cause harm. While most people understand the importance of driving at a safe speed during the winter months, the warm and sunny skies of summer can create the illusion of safety, tempting drivers to put their luck to the test. On average, speed-related accidents kill nearly 10,000 people every year, and you don’t want to become the next statistic. When you travel faster than the posted speed limit, you are exposing yourself to a range of problems:

• More Likely to Lose Control
• Takes Longer to Stop
• Increases the Severity of Injuries

The Dangers of Speeding

Before you decide to roll the windows down and see how fast your vehicle can go, remember that it’s not worth putting your life, and the lives of those around you, on the line. Even if you survive a high-speed crash, you will likely face medical bills, fines and other expenses that will make your life difficult. When you exceed the posted speed limit, you are also exposing yourself to citations that cost more than $100, but speeding in a work zone will cost around $300. Getting a speeding ticket, though, is a small price to pay when you consider the other possible outcomes.

Dangers of Distracted Driving

In addition to traveling at unsafe speeds, distracted driving is also a problem that puts lives in danger. Mobile phones and other portable devices make it easier than ever to stay in touch, but you need to know when to put your electronics down. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 1,000 people are injured and 9 people are killed in accidents related to distracted driving each day. One person’s dashcam shows how dangerous distracted drivers are when another vehicle goes left of the center line and almost causes a head-on collision.

Driver captures video of SUV swerving, nearly hitting him head-on in southern MN. Put away the distractions & #JustDrive! pic.twitter.com/7b5kVueecc

— MN State Patrol (@MnDPS_MSP) July 24, 2017

The Studies Come as No Surprise

The statistics linked to unsafe driving and the dangers that come with it don’t surprise many drivers. Although most people know that speeding and distracted driving are a problem, they feel as though they are exempt from the rule. If we want to make our roads safe for everyone, it’s vital we all follow the posted speed limit and pay attention to the road. 

Getting Help

If you or a loved one has been injured in a vehicle crash that resulted from another driver’s negligence, you are entitled to fair compensation. While it’s important to get help covering your repair and medical bills, you could experience lost wages while you recover from the damage. Many drivers count on the insurance companies to provide them with the money they need and deserve, but your insurance company won’t always have your best interests in mind. If you want to safeguard yourself and your financial stability, you need the help of an experienced legal team. When you are ready to get started and to give yourself the best odds of success, contact the law offices of Schwebel Goetz & Sieben. Call (612) 377-7777 or toll-free at 1 (800) 752-4265 for a private, free consultation.