Prevention is far better than needing a cure – and, since the holiday season is a prime time for injuries to occur, we’ve decided to share some insights into how to protect yourself. In this blog post, we’re focusing on the increased dangers on the road during the holiday season. And, while all drivers need to be careful, a study by CarInsuranceComparison.com reveals the top ten states with “worst-driving honors,” and unfortunately South Carolina made the list.
This obviously doesn’t mean that all drivers in South Carolina engage in risky behaviors, but our state did end up on the list after the survey reviewed National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) data in five categories:
- Number of fatalities per 100 million miles traveled
- Failure to obey traffic signals or wear seat belts
- Drunken driving
- Speeding
- Careless driving
NHTSA is sharing data with state and local officials and other experts to brainstorm ways to reduce crashes and people are being cautioned to drive carefully, which includes driving sober (or taking a cab or using a designated driver), to not drive when drowsy, to drive the speed limit and to use seat belts.
More People on the Road
More people are on the roads, shares this USA Today article, because of lower gas prices. In fact, the number of miles traveled increased 3.5% in 2015, the biggest increase in almost 25 years – and gas prices are still relatively low at about $1.99 per gallon. Last year, prices were about $1.91 per gallon in South Carolina.
Cola Daily in Columbia, South Carolina estimated more than half a million South Carolinians would be traveling on highways during Thanksgiving, with two million in South and North Carolinas combined traveling at least 50 miles away from home. That’s an increase of at least two percent.
Safe Holiday Driving Tips
WBTV recommends that you leave space between your car and the one in front of you to allow for more braking time if needed. Drive at the speed limit and consider putting your car on cruise control. Not only will that increase fuel economy, it will also keep you from mindlessly speeding. Avoid distractions! Put your cell phone away.
Consider, too, downloading our white paper written by our car accident attorneys that prepares you what to do in case of an accident. And, if you’ve been in one already, get the advice of a skilled lawyer before talking to an insurance adjuster. We have successfully secured compensation for injured clients, including punitive damages, medical expenses, lost wages, and damages for pain and suffering — and are available to help you. So, contact our Rock Hill and Lancaster car accident attorney online or call 803-324-7200 for a free consultation.