If people were to stop and think about the potential dangers associated with driving, many would be hesitant to get behind the wheel. However, driving is a necessity in most people’s day-to-day lives, so people generally push any worries aside and do their best to be a safe and proactive driver. Still, many feel a little anxiety when it comes to driving on busy city streets or congested highways. Surprisingly, though, these roads shouldn’t be the greatest source of concern.
Auto accidents are actually more of a risk on rural roads. These auto accidents can result in serious personal injury, as they often take place at high speeds. Experienced auto accident attorney Joe Horrox understands the dangers of auto accidents on rural roads and is ready to help his Daytona Beach, CA clients fight for fair compensation for any damages that may have resulted from such an accident.
The Dangers of Rural Roads
Most drivers love the feel of an open, country road. They often get a sense of freedom and safety when they are not surrounded by other drivers. Unfortunately, this sense of safety is false. Statistically, a driver on a rural road is more at risk for an auto accident than one on an urban road. What is even more alarming is the fact that the risk of death is greater for those involved in an auto accident on a rural road. According to statistics collected by the U.S. Department of Transportation, the fatality rate of car accidents on rural roads is roughly 2.4 times greater than the fatality rate of auto accidents on urban roads.
With fewer cars on the road, why is it that the risk of an auto accident is so high on a rural road? There are actually many factors that may contribute to the dangers of rural roads. The first is that sense of freedom. Because there are fewer cars, reckless actions such as speeding, driving under the influence, driving while distracted, and driving without wearing a seatbelt are all more common on rural roads.
In addition to this tendency towards carelessness, rural roads pose their own unique threats. Below are some characteristics of rural roads that may contribute to the high likelihood of an auto accident:
- Poor lighting conditions
- Lack of street signs
- Blind bends
- Unmarked driveways
- Rough road conditions
- Animal crossings
Damages in Rural Auto Accidents
Rural road auto accidents not only have higher death rates; they also tend to result in higher damages in general. It is common for rural road auto accidents to cause serious personal injuries, which are likely to result in expensive medical bills, time away from work, and physical and emotional pain and suffering. Attorney Joe Horrox represents victims of rural road auto accidents to ensure they are justly compensated for all of their damages. He works with experts in the field to prove liability so that his client’s rights can be protected.
Contact Us
If you’ve been involved in an auto accident and have questions about your legal rights, attorney Joe Horrox is happy to provide the answers you need. Contact us at your earliest convenience to discuss the details of your case and find out how we can help you in your pursuit of financial compensation.