News reports state that traffic is on the upswing this holiday season. Taking a long-distance road trip at any time in Montana can be risky because you cannot control the actions of other drivers no matter how careful you are. This may be especially true in 2021 now that more drivers are taking to the streets.
Fatal traffic accidents increase in 2021
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that the number of people who died in traffic accidents in the first six months of 2021 was 18.4% greater than that same number in 2020. This is the highest six-month percentage increase on record. The number of traffic fatalities in the second quarter of 2021 was the highest for a second quarter in the past two decades.
What driver behaviors lead to car crashes?
The NHTSA has compiled a list of driver behaviors that play a role in fatal auto accidents. Speeding is at the top of list, accounting for 17% of fatal motor vehicle accidents in 2019. Impaired driving is the second highest behavior that leads to auto accidents, at 10% of fatal motor vehicle accidents in 2019. Failure to yield and staying in the correct lane were third and fourth highest behaviors of fatal auto accidents accounting for a combined 14% of fatal motor vehicle accidents in 2019. Careless driving was the fifth highest cause of fatal car accidents accounting for 6.5% of fatal motor vehicle accidents in 2019.
Drive safe this holiday season
The winter holidays are a time of joy. This joy can be marred, however, if you or a loved one is involved in a traffic accident during your holiday travels. Driving defensively can work in your favor, but other drivers will make risky decisions behind the wheel leading to a car crash. If you are involved in a motor vehicle accident this holiday season you may have options for pursuing compensation for your damages, including pursuing a personal injury lawsuit if appropriate.
