When determining what causes fatal car accidents across the country, the statistics are all over the road. However, one study compiled by the Auto Insurance Center gives us a better idea of the top cause of fatal car accidents in each state. The statistics are based on data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) from 2009 to 2013. How did Ohio fare?
The fatal car accidents in Ohio are caused most often by a driver’s failure to stay in the proper lane, according to the report. Failure to remain in the proper lane was the top cause among the most states nationwide including neighboring Indiana, Michigan and West Virginia.
The good news is that Ohio fared relatively well compared to the rest of the country. Although Ohio was not listed as the “safest” state in any category, we weren’t the worst either. The Buckeye State is right in the middle of the road when it comes to driver safety, but given that failure to stay in the proper lane is the top cause of fatalities, there is still room for improvement.
Increase in distracted driving?
It’s hard to say exactly what causes drivers to leave their designated lane of traffic. Most drivers have good intentions when they take the road, but an increase in distracted driving due to the use of cell phones could be a cause of these fatal accidents. At any given time, more than 600,000 drivers nationwide are operating electronic devices while driving, according to the NHTSA.
People often believe that a quick glance at their phone and away from the road is harmless but on crowded roadways seconds and inches matter. Other factors such as eating and drinking, grooming, and use of in-car features such as GPS and radio can cause drivers to swerve into another lane inadvertently.
What if I’m hurt in an accident?
Given the high rate of distracted driving both in our state and across the country, involvement in a car accident that causes injury could be an unfortunate reality for you or a loved one. Distracted driving is a crime, but it can also lead to civil litigation against the responsible parties.
We hope you are never hurt in a car accident, but if you are, it is important to know who to trust when seeking a path to recovery. A personal injury attorney that specializes in motor vehicle accidents can help you gain compensation for injuries suffered due to someone else’s careless or distracted driving.