Area, time, distance all impact drive safety

All drives are not created equal when it comes to the statistical likelihood of a car accident. Fatal motor vehicle crashes are most likely near the home of the driver, with many South Carolina crashes happening within 25 miles of home. Part of the reason is that most driving happens within a short distance of home, but there are other factors at play as well.

Drivers are less likely to wear seat belts, for example, if they are driving just a short distance. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reports driving just a short distance as one of the main reasons drivers give for not buckling up. Driving on familiar roads can also lead to a lack of alertness on the part of the driver. It’s important not to fall into the comfort zone trap while behind the whee. Accidents on familiar roads are often caused by new elements like other drivers, vehicle equipment failure or crossing animals.

The time of day during which the drive occurs is also an important factor. Late afternoon and early evening are the most dangerous times to be on the road, with 16 percent of fatal crashes occurring between 3 and 6 p.m. Night driving can also be dangerous, with 31 percent of fatal crashes between 6 p.m. and 12 a.m.

Rural driving might be more dangerous than driving in the city. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, almost 3,000 more fatal accidents happened on country roads as happened in cities during 2013. Individuals who have been injured in car accidents caused by the negligence of another motorist might be entitled to recover compensation for the losses that have been incurred. An attorney can advocate on behalf of the client in court or negotiate a settlement with insurers.