4 Factors That Increase Summer Car Accidents
The occurrence of car accidents slightly increases during the summer months. Understanding what factors contribute to the increase in car accidents can help you stay safe this summer.
1. Inexperienced Drivers
There tend to be more inexperienced drivers on the roads during the summer months. Schools are out for the summer, which means there are more teen drivers.
2. Drunk Driving
The summer months are filled with holidays and backyard celebrations. Many people may attend BBQs or parties that involve alcohol, which can lead to more drunk drivers on the road.
3. Fatigued Driving
Many people take vacations during the summer months. They may spend more time driving to nearby destinations, which can lead to more fatigued drivers.
4. Distracted Driving
People may be more distracted during the summer months. They may use their phones to chat with friends or share directions to different destinations.
These are some of the most common factors that increase the risk of summer car accidents in New Jersey. However, there may be other causes, including rainy weather or construction zones.
How to Stay Safe This Summer
You can still enjoy your summer plans while staying safe. Planning ahead is an important part of staying safe. If you plan on attending summer BBQs where alcohol is involved, make sure you arrange alternative transportation ahead of time. If you and your family plan on a road trip this summer, plan out your route ahead of time.
Give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination, and pull over if you’re tired. If there are multiple adults with driver’s licenses, consider dividing the time equally. It’s also a good idea to avoid distractions, not only during the summer months but all year long. Put your phone in the glove box, so you’re not tempted to answer text messages. If you have access to hands-free technologies, ensure that they’re connected and working before getting on the road.
If you have a teen who is out for summer and plans on driving this year, brush up on summer safety driving tips. It’s important to discuss the risks of distracted driving and driving under the influence of alcohol. Provide them with alternatives in case they find themselves at a party without other transportation. Having your teen call you to pick you up because they’re drunk is better than having them get behind the wheel.
Know What to Do Following a Car Accident
Knowing what to do if you’re in a car accident can also be helpful. Regardless of who’s at fault, it’s important to check your condition and file a police report. It’s best to seek a medical evaluation, even for what appears to be a smaller car accident. You never know if the injury could get worse, and by then, it may be difficult to connect it to the car accident.
Even if you think you’re at fault, it’s best not to admit fault. You don’t have all the details, and it’s possible that the other driver contributed to the accident in some way. It’s also possible that a third-party person is responsible for the accident. If you experience a lot of damage following a car accident, it may be best to contact a lawyer.
Contact an Essex County Personal Injury Lawyer to Discuss Your Car Accident Case in New Jersey
Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries due to a car accident in New Jersey? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. The skilled attorneys at Birkhold & Maider, LLC represent clients injured because of a car accident in Essex County, Hudson County, Mercer County, Union County, and throughout New Jersey. Call (973) 947-4670 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case. We have an office conveniently located at 189 Franklin Avenue #1 Nutley, NJ 07710, as well as an office in Hamilton, NJ.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
