According to the National Safety Council (NSC), the odds of dying in a car accident are 1 in 107. This means that over your lifetime, you have about a 0.9% chance of dying in a car accident.
Even so, traffic accidents remain among the eight most common causes of death in the United States. For this reason, you should always exercise caution when getting behind the wheel.
Many traffic fatalities and injuries in Texas are preventable, as most accidents are caused by human error and negligence. Specifically, drivers can reduce the risk of being involved in a car crash by:
- Following all traffic laws
- Not driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Avoiding driving while drowsy.
- Paying attention to the road
- Respecting the speed limit
- Keeping your car in good working condition
Factors That Increase Your Chances Of Dying In a Car Accident
Every time you put your keys in the ignition, you’re risking your life. If you’re ever involved in a traffic accident, keep in mind that the following circumstances can increase your chances of losing your life in a collision.
1. Driving Frequency
Basic probability dictates that the more you drive, the greater your chances of having a serious accident. Remember that this is just one factor of increased risk.
Limit extraneous travel and use defensive driving strategies when out and about.
2. Irresponsible Driving Habits
The overall likelihood of both fatal and non-fatal car accidents increases with technological distractions and negligence. The best way to prevent such incidents is to put away your devices and concentrate on operating your car at all times.
3. Intoxication
The effects of alcohol and drugs alter your ability to react and can seriously impair your driving skills. These types of intoxicants are known to reduce your visual acuity and critical thinking.
To prevent the likelihood of being killed or getting into an accident, take legally prescribed medications as directed by your physician and refrain from consuming alcohol or recreational drugs before driving.
4. Speeding
Speeding plays a central role in the leading causes of death from motor vehicle crashes. Going over the speed limit is also associated with other irresponsible driving habits.
In fact, speeding increases the likelihood of causing a fatal crash. Data from the Transportation Security Administration identified speeding as the number one factor in more than 25% of traffic fatalities.
Common Car Accident Injuries
Wearing a seat belt can help reduce the risk of death and injury in a car accident. However, seat belts and air bags may not prevent all injuries.
Here are some of the most common injuries caused by car accidents, including:
- Soft tissue injuries, including whiplash, sprains and strains
- Broken bones and fractures
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Back and spinal cord injuries
- Paralysis
- Amputations
- Severe burns
- Chest injuries
- Internal organ damage
Car accident injuries can leave victims with physical damage that lasts for years or even a lifetime. When these cases occur, it’s best to get medical attention as soon as possible, as it can be crucial in preventing further health problems and even be essential in saving victims’ lives.
What To Do And Who To Call In The Event Of a Car Accident
If you’ve been in a crash or you want to file a wrongful death claim for an accident but aren’t sure what to do, contact an accident attorney to help handle your situation.
Car accident deaths require an experienced attorney who has your best interests at heart as you seek justice, including compensation for all losses, lost wages and medical expenses when a loved one dies as a result of a traffic accident.
Before an accident even occurs, pay attention to warning signs from other drivers and be aware of risk factors that can make the difference in preventing an accident.
It’s no secret that a car accident can drastically change the lives of you and your entire family. If the accident resulted in the loss of a life, contact us at George Salinas Injury Attorneys. We will fight for your rights regardless of your immigration status.
