The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) recently published a study which indicates that speeding is an increasing cause of rush hour collisions. During the 2020 and 2021 pandemic lockdowns, increased rates of speeding and other risky behaviors surged.
Following the rules of the road is one of the best ways you can ensure your own safety—but not every driver is so conscientious. If you’ve been injured in a rush hour collision, call the Law Offices of Tim Misny for help.
Risky driving behavior and rush hour accidents
The IIHS study specifically examined Virginia drivers. They found that the likelihood of rush hour speeding (more than 5 to 10 miles over the speed limit) rose more than 50 percent throughout 2020 and 2021. The study concluded that the absence of traffic encouraged drivers to step on the gas. Unfortunately, that habit has persisted long past lockdowns.
Ohio has seen a steady rise in traffic and pedestrian fatalities over the past few years. This may be due to IIHS’s findings: bad habits developed during lockdown have persisted ever since.
How to avoid rush hour collisions
As a driver, it’s hard to predict what other drivers on the road will do. While we might assume they’ll follow the rules of the road, the studies and statistics above show that there’s an increase in risky driving behavior.
To protect yourself, follow the rules of the road. Leave plenty of space between you and the vehicle in front of you, especially if you’re following large, heavy vehicles which take longer to come to a stop. Avoid distractions, such as eating, drinking or talking on the phone, and ask passengers to stay quiet and calm during the drive.
Many people speed because they’re afraid they might be late to work, an appointment or other important obligation. Try to leave five or ten minutes earlier than necessary: if you get caught in traffic, you’ll have a cushion. If you’re going somewhere new, get directions or set up GPS navigation ahead of time. Looking at your phone, even for a few seconds, can make the difference between driving safely and getting into a collision.
A calm, measured approach to driving will help you stay alert and avoid crashes. If, however, you’re caught in a rush hour collision, the Law Offices of Tim Misny are standing by. Call today for assistance.
Call an Ohio car accident lawyer today
The Law Offices of Tim Misny can help you with your vehicle accident case. When you’re the victim of negligence or recklessness, I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call my office at (800) 556-4769 so that I can evaluate your case right away.
