Auto Accidents

Where Car Accidents Occur

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.

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HOW CAN I STAY SAFE ON MY GULF COAST COMMUTE?

The 2 most important things you can do to stay safe on a short neighborhood ride are the same things that will protect you on any ride: stay alert and buckle up. Seems like a no-brainer, but being adamant about these things really does make you a better, safer driver.

Try not to fall into a comfort zone when you’re approaching your humble abode. Even though you may know the route like the back of your hand, accidents are often caused by unpredictable elements like another driver, a crossing animal, weather, or car equipment failure. And letting your guard down can decrease your responsiveness behind the wheel.

Statistics also suggest the importance of buckling your seat belt even if you’re just driving around the corner. The main reason drivers give for skipping on seat belts, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), is that they’re only going a short distance. 2 out of 3 drivers killed in motor vehicle crashes in Mississippi are not buckled up.  So remember, buckling up, even close to home, is a habit worth getting into. If you’ve been injured by another driver, call Attorney Shantrell Nicks of the Nicks Law Firm.

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TIME OF DAY & VULNERABILITY

More cars on the road often means a higher risk for drivers. Not surprisingly, late afternoon and evening (the hours when most commuters are heading home)are the most dangerous times to drive. In fact, in 2015, a whopping 18 percent of fatal accidents in Mississippi happened between the hours of 3 p.m. and 6 p.m.

31 percent of fatal accidents occurred between 6 p.m. and midnight. If you have teenager drivers on the road, be sure to stress the importance of wearing a seat belt, non-distracted driving, and supply them with the names and numbers of your local authorities and family members. Understanding when and where accidents often happen can help you stay alert and safe behind the wheel.

At the Nicks Law Firm, we are 100 percent committed to helping our auto accident clients. When you call the experienced attorneys at the Nicks Law Firm, your case will be handled quickly and effectively as possible, keeping you informed every step of the way. Call us today at 228-896-6425 for your free consultation.

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Do not hesitate to get help from an attorney if you find yourself in the position of coping with what to do next. The Nicks Law Firm offers free initial consultations to all injury victims. Call (228) 896-6425 today!

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