The COVID-19 pandemic triggered a severe decline in mobility nation-wide, but surprisingly, vehicle accidents are on the rise, leaving authorities concerned about the social impact of coronavirus in addition to medical effects. A 2020 consumer research survey reports nearly 60% of Americans significantly reduced their travel throughout the year. If so, how could there be more traffic accidents than before the outbreak?
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Traffic Fatalities on the Rise Despite Shutdowns
Wouldn’t quarantine result in fewer drivers and therefore fewer traffic accidents? Apparently not. Data from the National Security Council shows motor vehicle crash fatalities increased by 14% in 2020 despite lockdowns. Traffic accidents commonly result in significant personal injuries and property damage so it is important to contact an attorney like the ones at Lawlor, White & Murphey
Enforcement Deficits and Open Roads Lead to Risky Drivers
Authorities attribute the growth in accident statistics to an upsurge in risky driving during a near moratorium on law enforcement nation-wide. Early into coronavirus lockdowns, open roads without a police presence tempted irresponsible drivers to break traffic laws. Speeding increased, while proper seatbelt use declined, leading to more car accidents and an increased fatality rate. Additionally, a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) study found a nearly 51% increase of injured drivers seen in emergency centers under the influence of alcohol or drugs since the outbreak started. Reckless behavior continues even as traffic volumes improve.
Post-Pandemic Concerns
As the COVID-19 vaccine is disseminated throughout the population, mobility and travel are expected to resume and more motor vehicles will return to the roads. In fact, there may be even more cars on the road than previously, due to continued social distancing precautions. Personal vehicles provide more protection than planes, trains and public automobiles where mass gatherings are an ongoing threat to satta matka vulnerable individuals. Additionally, even with the vaccine rollout, it may be a while before ridesharing and carpooling practices recover, as many people opt to drive alone. This potentially means congested roadways, heavier traffic and more car crashes as Americans get back to life as usual.
Essential Precautions for Drivers
Of course, accidents are bound to happen and drivers should be prepared. To avoid unnecessary expense, pain and hassle of dealing with the aftermath of a traffic incident amid the pandemic, consider your own behavior. The following protocol can help you interact safely while mitigating concerns as you work through the process.
- Practice social distancing on the scene as much as you can, even when speaking with first responders and giving statements to police officers.
- Try to avoid touching or swapping items with other parties while exchanging information. If you must share a pen, wear your mask and carry hand sanitizer.
- Cooperate with first responders. Request and accept medical assistance if you believe you have sustained an injury. Don’t hesitate to visit a hospital or trauma center. The long-term dangers associated with your accident-related injury most likely outweigh COVID-19 concerns.
- Be prepared to wait. The pandemic has slowed processes across the board, from insurance claims to lawsuit filings and many areas are experiencing a backlog of several months. Exercise patience and remain in contact with your claims adjuster and legal representation for updates.
A car accident is one of the most serious events you or your loved ones could encounter, and you should employ additional safety measures to protect yourself during and after the pandemic. Don’t be one of the careless drivers contributing to the climbing accident statistics, and should you find yourself the victim of a vehicle crash, seek professional assistance to recover the damages you’re owed.