Auto accidents can happen whenever Staten Island residents are on the road. The circumstances of these crashes will inevitably vary, as will the aftermath. There are, however, certain factors that are common with many crashes. Distracted drivers are a problem that has been increasing in recent years. It is now one of the biggest causes of collisions with injuries and fatalities. Researchers are assessing the available data to gauge how to improve safety. One recent study from AAA shows a worrisome increase in fatal accidents at red lights. This information could be critical to a legal filing for compensation.
The statistic for red light fatalities is at its highest rate in a decade and distracted driving is believed to be the reason. Since 2012, the total has increased by 28%. A spokesman for AAA says that distraction is combining with recklessness and a lack of patience. The increase of red light cameras was found to be a positive influence on safer driving. Since drivers will be cited by mail if they run a red light, they are reluctant to run the risk. There was a reduction in fatal accidents due to a red light camera by 14%. The number of drivers who ran a red light overall was reduced by 21%.
In New York, there has been greater use of red light cameras and speed cameras to catch drivers who are going beyond the speed limit. This has been multiplied by 10, with more than 2,000 in use. Although there have been complaints that drivers are being unfairly targeted and legislators are using these devices to increase revenue, there is no denying the safety improvement. Speeding has been reduced by greater than 60%. Accidents have been lowered by 15%. Other research from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety says there was a noticeable improvement to the way drivers behaved, as speeding reduced by approximately 80%. In New York, 80% of those who received a $50 citation did not commit the act again.
Attempts to improve safety and conduct research into auto accidents and why they happen is important to make the roads safer. Unfortunately, accidents will still continue to happen and cause serious injuries and fatalities. After car accidents, the problems that arise will directly impact multiple aspects of a person’s life. Compensation may be available through a legal filing.
