Even if you follow the rules of the road and always wear your seatbelt, you still take a risk every time you drive. All it takes is one drunk, distracted, or negligent motorist to cause a devastating accident.
The Association for Safe International Road Travel reports that motor-vehicle collisions are the ninth leading cause of death around the globe, and they account for more than 2 percent of fatalities worldwide. Approximately 50 million people sustain serious injuries in vehicle collisions every year.
If you were hurt in an accident that a negligent driver caused, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income, and non-economic damages. A Madison injury attorney from Ballard Law, PLLC will help you fight for the maximum settlement, and if your case goes to trial, Mr. Ballard has the litigation experience to represent your interests in court. Call 769-572-5111 to schedule a consultation.
Read on to learn about four common causes for car accidents in Mississippi:
- Lane Drifting
Defensive driving involves predicting the actions of other motorists and adjusting to their behavior. However, serious injuries and fatalities often happen when drivers make unexpected maneuvers without signaling their intentions.
Lane drifting occurs when a vehicle leaves its lane without signaling. It is a common cause of deadly accidents across the United States.
Unfortunately, there is only so much you can do to prevent these collisions. Keep your eyes on the road at all times, and stay out of other vehicles’ blind spots.
- Speeding
Motorists who speed are more likely to lose control of their vehicle, and they are less likely to respond to hazards in time to take evasive action.
- Running Red Lights
When you are approaching a yellow light, the appropriate response is to slow down, but many motorists speed up in order to pass the light before it turns red. Even if you do not do this, you cannot expect other drivers to be just as responsible.
Even if your light is green, it is important to stay alert when you approach an intersection. Watch out for vehicles approaching on the crossroad. If a driver does not appear to be slowing down, expect the worst and take evasive action.
- Poor Road Conditions
Rain, snow, and ice can affect how your tires’ traction on the road. Reduced traction invariably means your vehicle will need more distance to stop. Hydroplaning can occur on wet roads, and it can cause your vehicle to skid or spin uncontrollably.
It is best to avoid driving in poor weather or on unfamiliar roads. If you have no choice, then reduce your speed and elongate your following distance. As a rule of thumb, it is best to double your following distance from three seconds to six seconds when driving on the highway in adverse conditions.
Unfortunately, even the most diligent drivers are not immune to collisions. If you were hurt by a negligent motorist in Mississippi, turn to Ballard Law, PLLC. Call 769-572-5111 to schedule an initial consultation with an accident lawyer in Madison. Visit http://car-accident.usattorneys.com/mississippi/ to learn more about car accident claims in Mississippi.
