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Traffic accidents. We all hate them. And yet not a day goes by that we don’t hear about one. With the crazy traffic and rush hour, it’s no wonder they’re so frequent. But why do they happen that often? Is rush hour the only cause? Probably not.
As it’d be difficult to list out all the reasons behind traffic accidents in the US, let’s focus on Indiana first. As the state is known for being more peaceful and serene than other bustling parts of the US, why do so many car accidents still take place? That’s actually what most US states have in common, the large number of car accidents.
Whether you’re a lifelong resident, someone moving to the state for work, or a professional driver, it’s important to understand the local risks and laws. That will help you stay safe and prepared. If you’re not an Indiana resident and you’re only moving because of your job or temporary relocation, you’ll feel more at ease if you’re familiar with the local laws and regulations.
Although Indiana is investing in improving its infrastructure, there’s still a lot of room for improvement. As a driver, you simply must be ready for the sudden changes in traffic. The weather is quite shifty in Indiana and if you’re a non-local, you better be prepared.
The best way to be prepared is to understand the reasons behind car accidents and recognize the risks on time. You can learn more in the next lines, so stay tuned.
The reason behind car accidents
In recent years, Indiana has seen a steady number of traffic incidents, mirroring national trends, which is not really a good sign. Many factors contribute to car accidents, including congested highways, distracted driving, and seasonal weather conditions.
Busy cities like Indianapolis experience a high volume of vehicles, which naturally increases the chances of collisions.
Weather is another critical factor. Indiana experiences a wide range of conditions throughout the year. While many often fail to take the weather seriously, it’s important to remember that more than 750,000 weather related accidents happen annually in the US.
Slippery roads and poor visibility are no joking matter and should be taken seriously by drivers.
Population growth and increased vehicle ownership also play a role. Indiana has attracted many newcomers due to its affordability and job opportunities, resulting in more cars on the road. All of this put together means you really need to be focused on the road ahead.
It also means you will definitely benefit from legal counsel in case an accident happens. Car accidents are more complex than they seem at first. Determining liability is not always straightforward so having a car accident attorney step in is a good idea.
They can give you sound advice and guide you through the process. Not to mention they can take care of the insurance negotiations on their own.
The risk of being on the road
So, what exactly is it that makes car accidents happen in Indiana? We’ll learn more in the next paragraphs.
Distracted and inattentive driving
One of the biggest causes of car accidents in Indiana (and probably everywhere around the world) is distracted driving. Phones, GPS systems, eating, reaching for items in the back seat, there’s always something competing for a driver’s attention.
With everyone using mobile phones while driving, instances of inattentive driving have been on the rise. People underestimate the power a single second of unattentiveness has. You can easily cause a collision or crash into a tree if you take your eyes off the road. Even if it’s just to answer a text.
Looking at your phone or even adjusting the music settings drastically reduces reaction time, especially in busy areas on fast-moving highways. With more drivers on the road than ever, even small lapses in focus can lead to serious collisions.
Speeding and aggressive driving
Speeding remains another major factor behind accident rates. Whether drivers are running late for work, frustrated during rush hour, or simply ignoring speed limits on familiar roads, higher speeds make accidents far more severe.
How often have you been a victim of tailgating? Our guess is, far too often. All forms of aggressive driving such as sudden lane changes or failing to yield can contribute to crashes and result in fatalities.
And, as Indiana has a mix of rural roads and high-speed interstates, it creates a dangerous combination when drivers don’t respect posted limits or road conditions.
Weather and poor road conditions
We already mentioned Indiana’s sudden weather changes. The unpredictable weather can turn your easy-breezy ride into a nightmare, especially if you’re a beginner driver.
Heavy rain, fog, snow, and ice are quite common during winter and all reduce visibility and traction. Roads can become slick quickly, and black ice is common in winter months. If you’re visiting Indiana from warmer places, make sure to check whether your car has all the necessary equipment. You should also always carry a first aid kit, just in case. You can easily end up on a remote road where an ambulance won’t be able to arrive within 10min so it’s advisable to actually have a backup plan.
Finally, don’t skip the regular maintenance and check your oil levels and tires before each trip. It’s only a couple of minutes of your time but it can spare you a lot in the long run.
The final word
Car accidents happen more often than we’d like, but knowing what to expect can make things a lot easier. Indiana has its own mix of traffic, weather, and road conditions, and being aware of them helps you stay safer, especially if you’re a tourist and not familiar with the road.
Whether you live here or you’re just moving for work, a little preparation goes a long way. And helps you feel more comfortable. Keep your car in good shape, stay focused on the road, and don’t take the weather lightly. And if an accident does happen, don’t hesitate to reach out to a car accident attorney for guidance. Staying alert and informed is the best way to protect yourself.