Over 37,000 people died due to motor vehicle-related incidents in 2017. It is also estimated that the yearly economic cost of car crashes is over $242 billion! With staggering numbers like these, it is incredibly important that you remain cautious on the road, whether you are driving or just sitting in the passenger seat.
Being mindful of facts related to road safety can help make you a better and more defensive driver and avoid being in a car crash.
Interested in learning more? Read on, and we will walk you through some of the most important and shocking road crash facts.
Almost 1.25 Million People Are Killed in Road Crashes Every Year
You read that statistic correctly. With nearly 1.25 million deaths worldwide each year, that comes out to an average of about 3,287 deaths a day.
One of the best ways to avoid being involved in a road crash is to pull into traffic slowly. Make sure that you are aware of your car’s blind spots – including those behind the windshields pillars and in your rearview mirrors.
Just like when walking, if you are driving across an intersection, always look both ways and be constantly checking to make sure you are safe to cross. Also, be sure to look out for children and animals, especially in residential areas.
Children aren’t always mindful of road rules and traffic so you have to make sure that you are extra cautious. Never be afraid to go slow and take it easy.
28 People Die Everyday from Drunk Driving in the U.S.
Drunk driving is one of the leading causes of motor vehicle deaths in the United States. If you are in your car and suspect that there is a drunk driver on the road, move as far away as possible.
Signs that a driver might be intoxicated include speeding, tailgating, and swerving. If you can, try to get a good look at the car’s license plate. Then call 911 and tell the operator what you saw.
Also, you should never drive a car if you are drunk. Being caught while driving drunk can result in hefty fines, jail time, suspension of your license, and other life-altering penalties.
Road Crashes Are the Leading Cause of Death Among People Ages 15-19
2,433 teens died from motor vehicle incidents in 2016. And over 290,000 were treated in emergy departments for road-related injuries.
Teen drivers are among the most dangerous and at-risk group of drivers on the road. If you have a teenager who is just learning to drive, make sure that they are defensive drivers who are aware of the dangers of operating a car.
In fact, many safety experts refer to the time between Memorial Day and Labor Day as the “100 Deadliest Days”. This is because that is the season where most teenagers have off from school and are spending more time on the road.
There are several reasons why teenage drivers are at such risk. One reason is simply due to lack of experience. Another major cause is distracted driving. As cell phones continue to become more ubiquitous within our lives, teenagers, and drivers, in general, are becoming more distracted despite the deadly risks.
If you or your teenager ends up in a car accident, be sure to get an attorney here. Calling an attorney after an accident is the best way to make sure that your rights, property, and safety are protected.
Road Crashes Are the Leading Cause of Death for Americans Traveling Abroad
Despite the number of motor vehicle deaths that happen each year in America, traveling abroad can be even riskier. Many less-developed countries have looser road rules and road enforcement. If you are going to another country, be prepared for a less stringent following of the rules.
If you intend to drive abroad, make sure that you are fully caught up on the rules of the road so you don’t end up in a compromising situation. Brush up on different road signs, types of streets, and other motor vehicle information.
Also, be careful when getting into taxis and other ride-sharing services. Do research beforehand so that you know which services are legitimate and which are riskier.
1 In 7 People Don’t Wear a Seatbelt While Driving
It is claimed that since 1975, seatbelts have saved over 300,000 lives. Whenever you are driving, it is vital that you wear a seatbelt.
When a person is in a moving car, they are essentially moving at the same speed as the car. This can mean that people are traveling at speeds of 70 mph or faster when on the highway.
Just because a car stops doesn’t mean that your body stops moving. So if your car is in a head-on collision and stops immediately, you could theoretically continue moving at 70 mph and go right through the windshield. By wearing a seatbelt, you are ensuring that your body stays restrained and inside the seat. This can mean the difference between life and death.
It is also important to note that by not wearing a seatbelt, you could face legal penalties. Also, if you are in a car accident and sustain injuries, not wearing a seatbelt can affect your insurance settlement.
Understanding These Road Crash Statistics
Now that you have read these important road crash statistics, you will hopefully be a safer and more cautious driver. Always remember that when you are operating a vehicle, you need to be mindful of both your own driving and the driving of everyone else around you.
Interested in reading more informative legal articles? Check out our blog today!
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