You might think the drowsiness or lack of attention that accompanies a longer drive home is more of a threat than cruising around your neighborhood. But 52% of all car accidents often take place within just 5 miles of home. While this is due to the fact that most driving occurs close to home, the relaxation we feel caused by the repetition of driving through our own neighborhood also plays a role.

If you’ve ever gotten home from work only to realize that your brain was on auto-pilot the whole drive, then you know this phenomenon. Driving in familiar places can cause us to rely more on muscle memory than on our active driving skills (making us less likely to be hyper-vigilant on the road). If your commute is 15 miles or less, your risk of being involved in a car accident jumps to a whopping 77%.

While these car accident statistics seem rather discouraging, there is no reason to give up driving altogether.  A car accident survey conducted by Progressive Insurance Company reveals that, while most car accidents occur close to home, these accidents tend to be minor compared to auto accidents that tend to occur farther from home and on busy highways and interstates. In fact, the average claim for “close to home” accident is around $2,500, whereas a highway accident averages around $15,500. There is no surefire way to avoid car accidents altogether. But accidents due happen and more often in certain places and at certain times. Having an attorney you can trust, help you fight the insurance company, and guides you through the legal process is invaluable. Call Shantrell Nicks of the Nicks Law Firm, and get the compensation you deserve for your injuries.