When a car crash or other motor vehicle collision occurs, it’s common to blame the other person. Studies show that 80 percent of drivers involved in auto accidents believed that the other party was responsible or could have at least done something to prevent the accident. Very few car accidents are from bizarre occurrences, such as a tree falling on a vehicle.
The faster your vehicle is going, the more likely it is that a car accident will happen. It is recommended you observe the three-second rule in everyday traffic. Most people will agree that if you’re going 100 mph, disaster is waiting to happen. Even exceeding the speed limit by 5 mph can result in a collision. When it does, it is important to call a Philadelphia accident lawyer who can assess your case and recover your damages.
For example, if a pedestrian walks out in front of a car and it’s traveling at just 30 mph, and the driver brakes when the pedestrian is 45 feet away, there will be enough space in which to stop without hitting the pedestrian. Increase the vehicle speed by just 5 mph and the situation changes dramatically. At 35 mph, with the pedestrian 45 feet away and the driver braking at the same point, the car will be traveling at 18 mph when it hits the pedestrian. An impact at 18 mph can seriously injure or even kill the pedestrian.
As we mentioned earlier, modern cars are manufactured to very safe standards, and the environment they’re driven in is engineered to minimize the injuries suffered during a car accident. The most difficult area to change is aggressive driver behavior and selfish attitudes. A 1995 study by the Automobile Association in Great Britain found that 88% of the respondents reported at least one of the behaviors listed below directed at them (in order of descending frequency):
- Aggressive tailgating
- Lights flashed at them because the other motorist was annoyed
- Aggressive or rude gestures
- Deliberate obstruction — preventing them from moving their vehicle
- Verbal abuse
- Physical assault
The Heslin Law Firm Represents Aggressive Driver Accident Victims and Provides Free Consultations
Please make sure you’re safe and calm while driving. A bit of annoyance isn’t worth a major accident. Remember, after a car crash or vehicle collision, it’s important to call a skilled aggressive driving accident lawyer. You can call our office at 215-332-0300.
For more information, read 18 Causes Of Car Accidents (Tips For Prevention).