Have Motor Crashes Decreased Since the Pandemic?

The recent pandemic has forced many people throughout the country to stay home and off the roads. With fewer vehicles traveling on the highways, you might think there are fewer motor vehicle crashes, too. Surprisingly, the pandemic hasn't resulted in fewer crashes. In fact, many cities have noticed an uptick in traffic-related accidents.

According to Newsy, the freedom of the open roads is one reason crashes have been more of a problem than expected during the COVID-19 public health crisis. With fewer vehicles on the roads, some drivers are taking advantage of the open freeways and traveling at higher speeds. Whether it's the assumption that law enforcement isn't ticketing drivers as much or the lighter traffic flow, the bottom line is that the number of dangerous crashes have risen or stayed the same as pre-COVID numbers.

Speed Is a Factor

State patrol officers across many cities throughout the country, including the Atlanta Metro area, have issued more tickets for drivers driving at speeds up to or exceeding 100mph. Crashes can happen at any speed, but the faster a vehicle travels, the more likely any impact will be severe or even fatal. National statistics, such as those reported on Newsy.com, support this fact. While crashes overall were reported to be lower from February to April, the number of fatal crashes rose.

As mentioned previously, many people assume that law enforcement has better things to do than issue tickets. Some also assume that social distancing requirements in cities throughout the country mean police officers won't issue tickets for traffic violations. These assumptions are mostly false, but that knowledge isn't enough for some people not to be tempted to put the pedal to the metal and test their vehicle's limit on a nearly empty highway.

How to Protect Yourself On the Highways

Living during a pandemic is stressful enough, and the last thing you want to worry about is being in an accident because of a reckless driver. Here are some tips to help you stay safe while traveling during COVID-19:

• Obey the posted speed limits
• Use your turn signals
• Drive during the day when visibility is better
• Limit driving times
• Pay attention to who is driving near you

What to Do If You Are Involved in an Accident

If you are in an accident, the first thing to do after seeking medical treatment is to call an accident lawyer. Injury lawyers protect your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve from your insurance company and other third parties. Hiring a personal injury lawyer ensures you can recover in peace without worrying about or getting bogged down in the details of filing an insurance claim.

Have you been involved in an accident in the Atlanta Metro area? Don't let the pandemic stop you from seeking legal assistance for an accident that you or your loved ones were involved in. The injury lawyers at George Stein Steelhorse Law are available 24/7 and offer 100% paperless legal services. Call or text them today at 404-522-1000 to discuss your case.