Car Accident Fatalities Peak Over Summer Months
There’s no arguing that summer is a great time to be on the road. Statistics show that people drive more roadway miles from June to August than they do during any other time of the year. The good weather and time off of school and work can lead many people to take day trips as well as longer road trips during the summer. Unfortunately, as driving increases, so do the number of fatal car accidents. So why are there so many fatal accidents over the summer? Experts believe it is a combination of reasons.
Reasons for Increased Vehicle Fatalities Over the Summer
One of the leading reasons for more fatal accidents during this time of year is that there are more teenage drivers on the road. It’s also possible that these teenage drivers have less supervision while parents are working and they are out of school during the day. Studies show that teenagers are more likely to drive recklessly when there are other teenagers in the vehicle. More teenage drivers die in June than in any other month annually. Another reason for summertime vehicle fatalities is the increase in driving under the influence of alcohol and other drugs. DUIs have increased over the pandemic, but intensify particularly over the summer months. The fourth of July boasts the highest number of drunk driving fatalities of any night of the year. Fatalities are more likely to result when drinking is involved, as vehicles are more likely to be involved in wrong-way and roll-over accidents. Additionally, summer brings tourists. Whether you are visiting an area that you are unfamiliar with, or you are simply driving with other tourist drivers who are unfamiliar with the area, it can create a great amount of risk for both you and other drivers. Tourists are more likely to be distracted as drivers and may miss traffic signals or signs. This can result in dangerous accidents.
What to do if You’ve Been in a Summertime, or Any Car Accident
If you have been injured as a result of a summertime, or any car accident that was not your fault, you may be unsure about your next steps. The best thing you can do is speak to a lawyer as soon as possible. A Maryland personal injury attorney will be able to help you navigate the insurance process to ensure that you receive the maximum recovery and settlement that you are entitled to. Insurance claims adjusters will reach out as soon as possible after an accident to try and reach a settlement that favors them. They do this because they know that immediately after the car accident you won’t know the full extent of your injuries, the anticipated cost of and timeline for treatment, and the amount of damage that has been done to your vehicle. By getting you to settle fast, they save money, and you fall into a classic car insurance pitfall. Having a lawyer to represent your interests and help you navigate this process is incredibly helpful, and ensures that you will not settle for less than you are owed.
Schedule a Consultation
The experienced Maryland car accident attorneys at Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP are ready to help you. If you have been involved in a Maryland car accident, call and schedule a consultation with our attorneys today.
