Car accidents are scary and disorienting for everyone involved. Even if no one is hurt, emotions can run high due to rattled nerves and distress over property damage. Luckily, there are a few steps that Virginia drivers can take to ensure everyone's safety and increase the chances of a smooth car insurance claim.
Fatal car accidents are on the rise in the U.S.
The average motorist in Virginia can usually be fairly confident about getting behind the wheel as long as they are alert and focused. However, there may be a good reason for drivers to be apprehensive. According to the National Safety Council, driving deaths climbed by 6 percent from 2015 to 2016, the latest year stats of this nature are available for. A similar increase was seen during the previous year, meaning fatal accident rates spiked nearly 15 percent within two years.
Car accidents and their most frequent causes
There are some common causes of car accidents, and they apply to Virginia and around the country. Most people know, for instance, that distracted driving is becoming a major issue. Multitasking is never a good idea behind the wheel whether by using a smartphone, adjusting the radio, eating, drinking, applying makeup or conversing with noisy children.
Speed named as reason for increase in big-rig accidents
Despite an increase in traffic safety programs, a new report released from Road Safe America shows that big rig trucking accidents increased in almost every state. The report looked at data for trucking accidents from 2009 to 2017. Though the number of miles driven by commercial trucks decreased over the years, the number of accidents increased. However, the safety group is pushing for increased safety regulations throughout Virginia and the rest of the U.S.
