One of the most common stereotypes is that drowsy or exhausted drivers making long trips in California are almost always at fault if they’re involved in an accident. But one study has shown that many accidents occur very close to home, often within a few minutes of beginning a trip. The study concluded by suggesting that choosing alternative methods of transportation for shorter trips could actually result in a 40% reduction in accidents.
The accident study found that 25% of all accidents happen within the first three minutes of driving. Additionally, another 14% of other accidents happen within the first six minutes. Other data revealed that the fewest accidents happened on short trips of 10 to 20 minutes.
A suggestion stemming from the study is that it would be best for people to not drive on short trips that can be completed by walking or riding a bicycle. Another recommendation is making sure all communication devices are turned off for the first few minutes of going back into traffic. Cellphones were also a significant factor in accidents in the study as cell phones were in use in 26% of all accidents at the time of the mishap.
Many car accidents occur in low-speed situations where distractions are common. If you were injured in an accident where you suspect that the other driver was distracted or otherwise negligent, you might benefit from consulting a personal injury attorney about your case. The accident you were involved in may have caused serious injuries, resulting in expensive medical bills and lost wages for the time you took off work to recover. An attorney may be able to help you receive compensation for these costs.