According to recent data from the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), June is the most dangerous month to drive in North Carolina, with 12% more deaths and injuries from fatal crashes on the road compared to the national average. What does this mean for your summertime travel plans? Here’s what you need to know.
How Do These Numbers Compare to the National Average?
Based on a 5-year analysis of NHTSA’s North Carolina crash data, June is the most dangerous month to drive in NC. A total of 1,204 people are reported to be injured or killed in fatal crashes at this time of year. This number is 12% higher than the national average of 1,072 injuries and deaths in fatal crashes occurring each month.
Leading Causes of Car Accidents in North Carolina
According to NCDOT, the three leading causes of car accidents in North Carolina are the following:
- Speeding. Speed limits exist for a reason and serve to minimize the catastrophic impact of a crash. Exceeding the posted speed limit could have deadly consequences if you lose control of your vehicle and collide with someone or something with excessive force. When you find yourself accelerating over the limit, be mindful of the damage you could cause by hitting something at that speed.
- Lane departure. Failing to check blind spots or use a turning signal when changing lanes is one of the most dangerous misjudgments a North Carolina driver can make, and it could cause a devastating collision. When changing lanes or merging onto a highway, always check your surroundings first for your own safety and that of everyone on the road.
- Distracted driving. Remember: any form of distracted driving, such as texting, eating and drinking, or looking in the mirror while behind the wheel, is considered negligence and can be life-threatening. Even if it’s just for a second, you may compromise your reaction time to brake or steer, potentially leading to a car crash.
Car Accident Attorneys Advocating for a Safe Summer on the Road
Summer is an exciting time to get outside and hit the road, but you must be mindful behind the wheel to help prevent a catastrophic car accident from occurring. If you or a loved one have been hurt in an accident due to another driver’s negligence, the North Carolina car accident attorneys at Henson Fuerst are ready to speak with you for free. We will fight to secure the maximum compensation you are entitled to by law to cover medical bills, time off work, car repairs, pain and suffering, and more. You pay us nothing while we work on your case, and we won’t get paid unless you do.
Contact us today by submitting a form below or calling our office at 919-781-1107 for a free consultation.
