Many people in Minnesota rely on driving to carry out their day-to-day activities. Unfortunately, the privilege of driving does not come without risks.
Auto accidents in Minnesota lead to hundreds of fatalities each year as well as thousands of injuries. Often, vehicular accidents may be completely unavoidable. However, there are many occasions where accidents, fatalities and serious injury might have been prevented. Understanding some of the common factors that contribute to auto accidents could be in your best interests.
Driving under the influence
Unfortunately, there are occasions where drivers choose to ignore the law and drive while under the influence. Driving while under the influence can significantly impair a motorist’s navigation of the vehicle, thus placing those around them in grave danger of serious injury or worse.
Speeding
Drivers who exceed the speed limit put those around them at serious risk of injury. Not only does speeding adversely affect drivers’ reactions, but it can also significantly increase the force of impact during a collision. Research shows that an increase in speed from 40 mph to 60 mph causes the energy of the impact to increase by 125%.
Driver fatigue
Often, people are unaware of just how dangerous driving while tired can be. In fact, the symptoms of fatigue may only arise when a motorist has already embarked on their journey. Being fatigued not only impairs the reaction times and abilities of the driver; it may also result in them falling asleep at the wheel. Driver fatigue presents a serious risk that can lead to serious injury and even death.
Understanding some of the common contributing factors to car accidents could help to keep you safe. If you have been injured in a vehicular collision, there are legal options open to you.