Summer is a time for Alabama residents to enjoy the warm weather, leisure activities and take to the road. This is true for people of all ages, but it is particularly relevant for teens and college-age drivers. Regardless of how frequently people are told to adhere to the rules of the road, be predictable and to drive safely, there are dangers seemingly around every corner. Auto accidents happen without warning and can result in major life changes with medical expenses, the inability to work and other financial, emotional and personal costs. Being aware of the common causes of accidents can help, but it is also useful to know what can be done after the accident.
Summer safety and the problem of distracted driving
The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) and comparable agencies across the United States are emphasizing summer driving risks by discussing the “100 deadliest days.” In addition to the basic dangers of summer driving, there has been a worrisome increase in accidents due to the current situation throughout the nation. Even as circumstances improve, the spike in fatal accidents is stoking concern. Speeding, recklessness and drivers who are under the influence are common reasons for a crash. In the state, distracted driving is a pressing issue.
Recent research shows that Alabama is the second worst state for distracted driving. Teens are a demographic that is known to be vulnerable to the temptation to drive while distracted. Using their cellphones to text, make calls, check social media and more puts them and others in danger. The study from WhistleOut and We Save Lives discusses the 100 deadliest days and notes that 60% of teen auto accidents are due to driving while distracted. ALDOT says that distracted driving accidents rose by 10% in 2019, killing more than 3,000 people. An estimate 5% of road deaths in Alabama are believed to have happened because a driver was distracted.
Dealing with the aftermath of an auto accident can be complicated
Regardless of how researchers and state agencies highlight summer driving and how auto accidents happen, people will still behave in ways that place themselves and others in jeopardy. Evidence as to the cause of the crash is a crucial part of determining how to move forward. Other issues include paying for care, covering for the inability to work and considering how the accident will negatively impact a victim’s future. If there is a fatality, these problems are exacerbated. Having professional help is important and discussing the case with those experienced in auto crashes may be critical.
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