The Leading Causes of Indiana Car Accidents
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, despite a slight decrease in Indiana traffic deaths from 2017 to 2018, there were still close to 900 traffic-related fatalities in the state. In addition to the high rate of fatalities, there was also a significant number of serious injuries caused by car accidents. Those who have been seriously injured in a car accident should contact an attorney to discuss their rights and remedies.
Experts agree that there are several leading causes of motor vehicle accidents in Indiana. The top three most common causes of accidents are unsafe driver actions, loss of control, and driver distraction. Unsafe driving accidents typically occur because one or more motorists dangerously operated their vehicle. Typical forms of unsafe driving are following too closely, failing to yield, unsafe reversing, improper turning, ignoring traffic signs, and improper passing.
Loss of control is another top cause of car accidents in Indiana. Loss of control can occur when a driver operates their vehicle at high speeds during inclement weather. For example, drivers should reduce their speed during snow and rain to ensure that they can effectively brake to avoid a collision. When drivers fail to modify their speed for traffic and weather conditions, accidents are more likely to occur.
Finally, when a driver engages in any activity that takes their attention away from the road, the likelihood of an accident drastically increases. Distracted driving involves activities such as texting, adjusting the radio, eating, looking at a map, talking on a phone, or dealing with children or pets in the vehicle. In addition to these common causes of car accidents in Indiana, other leading causes include impaired driving and environmental factors, such as inclement weather conditions.
Drivers who engage in these risky driving behaviors may cause a severe and potentially fatal accident. For example, recently, a 61-year-old Indiana woman died and three other people suffered injuries in a two-vehicle collision. According to a local news report, the accident occurred when a 21-year-old driver was traveling northbound and failed to yield to a westbound driver. The westbound driver collided with the passenger side of the other vehicle. The woman and three other individuals were in the westbound car. Police officials are still awaiting toxicology results and conducting an investigation.
Have You Suffered Injuries in an Indiana Accident?
If you or someone you know suffered injuries because of the negligence or recklessness of an Indiana driver, contact Padove Law. Attorney Padove has dedicated his practice to advocating on behalf of Indiana victims. He understands the emotional, physical, and financial toll that Indiana car accidents can take on accident victims and their families. He has successfully represented many accident victims and recovered substantial damages awards on their behalf. Compensation in car accident cases typically includes payments for medical bills, recurring medical expenses, lost wages, loss of consortium, and pain and suffering. Indiana personal injury cases can be complicated, and you should have a skilled Indiana injury attorney to represent your interests. Contact Padove Law for a free initial consultation at 219-836-2200.