Road Traffic Accidents and Injuries: How Safe Are You?

Driving can be a great way to get around, with the freedom to go wherever you want and the convenience of being able to do it in a short amount of time. Many people enjoy the feeling of being behind the wheel and driving on open roads. However, it’s important to remember that driving can also be dangerous. Unfortunately, road traffic accidents and injuries are a common occurrence, with around 1.3 million people injured in the United States each year. The good news is that there are different types of road traffic accident claims that one can file. With a bit of knowledge and awareness provided by Christensen law, you can help keep yourself safe on the road.

1. Common Traffic Accident Causes

One in every 9 people will be in a traffic accident in their lifetime. Out of those, one in every 3 will be hurt in a motor vehicle accident, which is why it’s important to understand what causes these accidents. There are many different factors that can contribute to a traffic accident, but some of the most common causes are:

• Driver Error – This is by far the most common cause of traffic accidents. It’s often a case of drivers overestimating their abilities or taking risks they wouldn’t normally take.
• Drunk Driving – Drunk drivers account for a significant percentage of traffic fatalities each year.
• Road Conditions – Poor road conditions can also contribute to traffic accidents. This includes things like slippery roads, potholes, and construction zones.
• Reckless Driving – While similar to the driver error cause, the difference is that reckless driving implies that the driver understood that the way they were driving could result in an accident.
• Defective Vehicles – Malfunctioning brakes or steering systems can cause accidents. Apart from that, tires that are not properly inflated can also be a safety hazard.

There are other factors that can contribute to traffic accidents, but these are some of the most common. By understanding what causes these accidents, you can be better prepared to avoid them.

2. Potential Complications

Unfortunately, some traffic accidents can result in injuries. While there are some that aren’t as bad – like a bruise or a sprain – there are medical complications that can be much more serious. Some of the potential complications from traffic accidents include:

• Whiplash – This is a neck injury that can be caused by the sudden forward and backward motion of the head. It’s one of the most common injuries from car accidents and can cause pain, stiffness, and headaches.
• Concussions – A concussion is a type of brain injury that can be caused by a blow to the head or a sudden movement of the head. Concussions can cause a variety of symptoms, including headaches, dizziness, nausea, and confusion.
• Broken Bones – Broken bones are another common outcome of car accidents. They can range from a simple fracture to a compound fracture where the bone pierces through the skin.
• Internal Injuries – These can be some of the most serious injuries sustained in a car accident. They can include things like organ damage, blood loss, and spinal cord injuries.

If you are involved in a traffic accident, it’s important to seek medical attention right away. Many of these complications can be treated if they are caught early on, but if left untreated they can lead to long-term health problems. It’s also important to note that some of them might not be obvious at first, especially while you still have adrenaline running through your system, so if the accident was anything more than a  minor fender bender it’s best to get checked out by a doctor.

3. Financial Repercussions

Unfortunately, car accidents don’t just have physical consequences – they can also have financial ones. While this can seem minor compared to the potentially life-threatening situation that a car accident can create, it’s still important to be aware of them, especially because it can affect your recovery process. Depending on the healthcare system in your country, for example, the financial strain could mean that you won’t be able to get the treatment that you need. There are also other financial ramifications to consider. Depending on the severity of the accident, you might have to pay for things like:

• Medical Bills – If you are injured in a car accident, you will likely have to pay for medical treatment. This can add up quickly, especially if you need surgery or rehabilitation.
• Property Damage – If your car is damaged in the accident, you will have to pay for the repairs. This can be expensive, especially if the damage is extensive.
• Lost Wages – If you are unable to work because of your injuries, you will lose out on wages. This can add up to a lot of money over time.
• Insurance – If you are involved in a traffic accident, your premiums might go up as a result, and you could potentially lose your no-claims bonus.

If you are involved in a car accident, it’s important to seek legal advice to understand your rights and what you can do to get the reimbursement that you deserve.

4. How To Avoid Traffic Accidents

While you can’t control how other people drive, there are some steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of being involved in an accident. This is something teen drivers should be especially mindful of because they don’t yet have the experience needed to navigate unusual situations they might encounter on the road. That said, driving safely is something every driver should be aware of. Some tips to avoid traffic accidents include:

• Be Mindful of Your Surroundings – This means being aware of what’s going on around you and adjusting your driving accordingly. For example, if you see that someone is about to run a red light, you should slow down and be prepared to stop.
• Don’t Drive When Tired or Distracted – Driving when you’re tired can be just as dangerous as driving drunk. Make sure to get a good night’s sleep before hitting the road, and put your phone away so you aren’t distracted.
• Follow the Rules of the Road – This one might seem like a no-brainer, but it’s important to remember that not everyone follows the rules. If you do, you’re less likely to get into an accident.

5. What To Do If You Are Involved In A Traffic Accident

If you are involved in a car accident, there are some things you need to do to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you. First and foremost, make sure that everyone is okay and that there are no injuries. If anyone is injured, call an ambulance immediately. Once everyone is accounted for, you should:

• Call the Police
• Exchange Information
• Seek medical attention if necessary
• Contact your insurance company

These are just a few of the things you should do if you are involved in a traffic accident. For more information, please consult an attorney or your insurance company.

Car accidents can have serious consequences – not just for the driver and passengers involved, but also for their wallets. It’s important to be aware of these consequences and to take steps to avoid traffic accidents. Staying safe on the road is everyone’s responsibility.