With the upcoming holiday season, drivers should think about how to stay safe during their travels. Data collected by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Federal Highway Administration shows that people in Alabama are among the most likely in the country to be victims of deadly car accidents.
The study’s findings are based on the number of licensed drivers in each state. Alabama’s number of licensed drivers, 3.8 million, in relation to its population, 4.8 million, means that drivers have an increased probability of dying in a vehicle accident. Alabama is listed as the fifth most dangerous state in the study. It joins other states with lower populations: Montana, North Dakota, West Virginia and Mississippi. These states also have less public transportation available, meaning people’s options are often limited to driving.
ABC 33|40 also recently reported on the danger of Alabama car accidents. In 2015, Alabama has seen nearly 28,000 vehicle accidents. More than 12,000 people suffered injuries and 460 people died.
How can you and your family stay safe as you travel during the holidays? There are some simple steps you can take as you plan your trip:
- Follow the speed limit and be especially careful in construction zones.
- Watch the weather forecast and plan accordingly. Leave early for your destination if bad weather is expected. Speeding in rainy or icy conditions is extremely dangerous.
- Make sure everyone in the car is using a seatbelt. Children under 12 should ride in the appropriate seat, booster seat or car seat.
- Don’t drive if you are drowsy, distracted or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
We hope that your travels are safe this holiday season. If an accident happens, however, you can seek compensation for medical bills, lost income and other losses. Speak with an experienced car accident attorney to learn about your rights after a car crash.
