Tips for Avoiding a Costly Car Accident

Feb 03, 2023 12:33 PM EST | Staff Reporter

Image by Steve Buissinne from Pixabay


(Photo : Steve Buissinne from Pixabay)

Being involved in a car accident is costly. Not only are there expensive medical bills to worry about if you are injured, but there is also the cost of damage to your vehicle and the loss of wages if you need to take time off work. And if a loved one dies in an accident, the costs go way beyond the financial ones. 

The average economic cost of a car accident death is $1,750,000. Even if no injury is observed, the cost is estimated to be more than $12,000. 

US roads are very busy. There are around 280 million vehicles and more than six million accidents each year. This makes the US one of the most dangerous countries, as the US has four times as many car accidents as any other nation.

Data from the United States Department of Transportation has revealed an increase in road deaths in the first half of 2022, with around 20,100 fatalities; a 0.5% increase from the previous year. Globally, approximately 1.3 million people die on roads each year, which equates to 3,287 deaths per day. Thankfully, most road traffic accidents don't lead to fatalities. 

To avoid an expensive car accident, read on for some tips. 

Stay Alert While Driving

Distracted driving is the most common cause of car accidents in the US. Data from the NHTSA shows that 13% of all distracted driving car accident fatalities in the US were caused by people using cell phones while behind the wheel. Every year, distracted driving causes 3,142 fatalities. The best way to avoid becoming one of these grim statistics is to stay alert while driving. 

Don't use your cell phone when you are behind the wheel. That includes texting, updating your social media feeds, taking selfies, and watching TikTok videos while in stationary traffic. 

In addition to not using cell phones, it's also important to pay close attention to what's happening around you. Often, it is other drivers who are at fault in road accidents. By watching what other drivers are doing, you can anticipate their next move and act accordingly. For example, if you spot an erratic driver, it's sensible to give them a lot of extra space in case they veer into your lane. 

Maintain Your Vehicle in Proper Conditions

Many accidents are caused by poor vehicle maintenance. The NHTSA estimates that around 11,000 road traffic accidents result from bad tires each year. All of these accidents could have been avoided if vehicle owners pumped up tires when they are underinflated or replaced tires when they get bald. 

Don't Drive in Dangerous Weather Conditions

There are some weather conditions where it's just not safe to be on the road. Heavy rain, storms, ice, and snow are all dangerous for drivers. If you can avoid driving when the weather is bad, your odds of becoming a car accident statistic are dramatically improved. 

If you are unlucky enough to be involved in a road traffic accident, speak to a car accident lawyer and claim the compensation you deserve. 

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