2020 was a year of change in how Americans connect, work, and travel. Many of us are feeling stress on new levels. Unfortunately, the pandemic and stay-at-home orders have been accompanied by a sharp increase in risky driving and fatal crashes. Please drive safely… safe driving saves lives
Most Fatal Crashes Are Linked to Risky Behavior
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that preliminary 2020 data shows that although fewer Americans drove, those who did took more risks and had more fatal crashes. Following is a list of some of the data gathered so far:
- A median 22% increase in speeds in select metropolitan areas.
- 65% of drivers in trauma centers after a serious crash tested positive for drugs or alcohol.
- The average number of people thrown from vehicles during crashes, indicating no seat belts doubled in some months during 2020.
Many factors contribute to risky driving, including: Running late; Traffic delays; Disregard for others drivers or the law.
Aggressive Driving
Equally important, aggressive driving is a serious problem which often leads to injury and death. The NHTSA defines aggressive driving as: “when an individual commits a combination of moving traffic offenses so as to endanger other persons or property.”
Studies show many Americans engage in the following aggressive driving behaviors:
- Speeding on a regular basis.
- Entering an intersection after a light turns from yellow to red;
- Failing to come to a complete stop at stop signs;
- Making illegal U turns.
Furthermore, the NHTSA also reports that drivers engage in aggressive behaviors, including:
- 12% of drivers admit they’ve made angry, insulting, or obscene gestures toward other drivers;
- 10% admit to cutting in front of other drivers;
- 6% admit to passing on the shoulder in heavy traffic; and
- 3% admit to passing in no passing zones
Protect yourself and your loved ones. Aggressive driving accounts for half of all traffic fatalities. Safe Driving Saves Lives. Be alert. If you are faced with an aggressive driver, take actions designed to avoid escalating the situation. First, get out of the aggressive driver’s way – regardless of who actually has the right of way. Second, never challenge an aggressive driver. Avoid eye contact. Do not respond to gestures or words. Report the aggressive driver.
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
Sources: NHTSA; Ward Merdes
Image Source: U-Driver
