Federal and state traffic collision statistics often show the extent and magnitude of damage that accidents brought on the lives of thousands of people.
On the brighter side, these statistics also give us some hints about vehicle accidents – the underlying causes and the factors that make our roads dangerous.
Contributing Factors in Traffic Collision
In California alone, statistics show that a traffic collision is reported every minute and one person gets killed in a traffic collision every two hours - aside from the fact that one person gets injured every 2 minutes as a result of a traffic collision.
In all these cited accidents, speed is the primary collision factor, accounting for about 29 percent of all fatal and injury collisions.
Most fatal collisions are caused by drunk driving as reported by the California Highway Patrol. State records show that driving under the influence (DUI) incidents have increased by 18.4 percent in the last five years.
As a result, DUI-related fatalities have also increased by about 20.3 percent.
Other factors that may lead to traffic collision may also include the following:
• Driver negligence or recklessness
• Defective vehicle design or parts
• Poor road design or improper safety signs
• External factors such as extreme weather conditions
In 2005, the number of motorcyclists killed in collisions has increased by about 102.0 per cent while the number of injured victims rose to 47.7 percent that same year.
Statistics further show that nearly 37.5 percent of drivers involved in fatal and injury collisions were under the age of 30. However, records show that there is a rising incidence of traffic collisions involving teens and elderly drivers, both extremes of the driving license spectrum.
What to Do
On the other hand, traffic collision statistics also show that most accidents are often caused by negligence and can therefore be prevented.
In other words, the key factor in traffic accident prevention is obedience to traffic laws and the proper observance of traffic driving safety. The use of seatbelts, helmets and other safety equipment when driving is a must for all motorists. This also includes obedience to the major laws such as drunk-driving laws or the cell phone law.
However, in consideration of other factors, a safety-conscious motorist should also check his vehicle for defects or malfunction. Checking the tire pressure, signal lights, and the performance of the car engine can help avoid accidents caused by malfunction or car defects.
The California Driving Manual can offer you with a handful of tips on how to drive safely and prevent road accidents.
To acquaint yourself with laws governing road safety and accident prevention, you may consult with someone who has experience and knowledge in laws involving car and vehicle accidents, preferably a vehicle accident lawyer.
