With many drivers stuck inside during the pandemic, you would think most states would have reported a significant decrease in car crashes., less fatal car accidents. Fewer cars on the road means fewer traffic fatalities, right?
Think again.
Despite the decrease in miles driven, the number of car crash deaths increased. In fact, the National Safety Council estimates that over 42,000 car accident victims died in 2020 – 8% higher than 2019. Pair this increase with the 13% drop in miles driven, and fatality rate becomes particularly grim.
Here at Hoffman Law Firm, your trusted auto accident law firm in Charleston, SC, our team is committed to keeping you from becoming a statistic. If you have been injured, though, our South Carolina attorneys are here with legal advice and to help you pursue an accident claim – starting with a free consultation!
What Caused Fatal Car Accidents to Increase?
While it is impossible to know for sure, it seems that more open roadways prompted Charleston, SC drivers to throw caution to the wind. While they might have been concerned about contracting COVID-19, many Americans showed little consideration for road rules. In many cases, car crashes were the result of reckless driving, speeding, improper lane changes and failure to use proper signals.
In a recent traffic safety study, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that the ejection rate started to double in April 2020. This was likely due to a decrease in seat belt use. Plus, data from five trauma centers showed a higher prevalence of alcohol, marijuana and opioid use in car accident victims throughout the second quarter, compared with previous years. This comes as no surprise considering that alcohol sales skyrocketed during 2020.
Important Safety Tips to Prevent a Fatal Car Accident
To prevent fatal car accidents from increasing, our Charleston car accident lawyers recommend the following:
- Always practice defensive driving.
Be sure to stay alert and aware of your surroundings. Assume that other drivers are not paying attention and be ready to react if necessary,
- Disconnect from distractions.
Avoid using mobile devices, playing with the radio, eating, etc while behind the wheel.
- Never text and drive.
Glancing down for only a few seconds could have deadly consequences.
- Maintain a safe distance.
Give yourself and the cars around you plenty of space in case they slow down or stop abruptly.
- Obey the speed limit at all times.
Speeding gives you less time to react and is a highly preventable – but common – cause of car crashes in Charleston County.
- Never drive under the influence.
Never operate a motor vehicle if you have consumed alcohol or any potentially impairing substances.
- Buckle up – every time, every drive.
Seat belts save lives, so be sure to wear yours every time you are in a vehicle.
For Car Crash Advice, Call Your Charleston Car Accident Attorneys!
If you have been injured in a car or truck accident, Hoffman Law Firm will fight for the damages you deserve – including compensation for medical bills, property damage and pain and suffering. Trust your Charleston auto accident attorneys to handle your injury claim and all communication with the insurance company. Plus, we will offer helpful legal advice along the way.
Schedule your free consultation with our experienced South Carolina attorneys, contact Hoffman Law Firm today!