The Increased Risk of Auto Accidents on Rural Roads
Although most people try not to focus on the potential dangers of driving, the truth is that getting in an automobile (something most people do each day) could have serious consequences if an accident were to occur. Auto accidents are an unfortunate and frequent occurrence that can lead to property damage, personal injury, or even death. While an automobile accident could happen at any location, statistics show that the risk of a collision occurring is significantly greater on a rural or country road. Whether due to the tendency to make poor driving decisions on these secluded roads, or a lack of upkeep of road conditions in rural areas, the percentage of auto accidents and fatalities is greater on rural roads than on urban roads, despite the fact that less of the population lives in rural areas.
Dangers of Rural Roads
So, if more people live in urban areas, why is it that accident and fatality rates are higher in rural areas? There are many factors that contribute to the increased danger of rural roads. Below are some of the factors that may account for the high number of auto accidents and fatalities on country roads:
- Drivers show a greater tendency to speed on country roads, probably since there are fewer cars on these roadways
- Studies show that in many auto accidents that occurred on rural roads, drivers and passengers were not properly restrained in the vehicle
- Data shows that accidents on rural roads are more likely to be caused by drivers who were driving under the influence, as opposed to accidents on urban roads
- It may take longer for first responders to arrive at an accident scene on a rural road
- Wild animals such as deer and elk may suddenly appear on a country road
- Country roads may be poorly maintained and may lack proper road signage
- The design and layout of many rural roads are outdated, making them more difficult to maneuver than urban roads and freeways
For all of the above reasons, drivers and passengers who are traveling on rural/country roads are at an increased risk of being injured or killed in an auto accident.
Facing Auto Accident Damages
Those who are involved in an auto accident on a country road are likely to be faced with property damage and personal injury expenses. Attorney Norman Younker and his team of auto accident attorneys have worked numerous cases involving rural road car accidents and can carefully examine such accidents (working with other experts in the field) to determine who is at fault when a collision occurs. By determining responsibility, we can seek financial compensation for our clients so that they are not left alone to deal with the financial burden of medical expenses, lost wages, or other hardships.
Contact Us
If you’ve been involved in an auto accident on a country road and would like to learn if you are eligible for financial compensation, contact us to discuss your case. Attorney Norman Younker fights aggressively for his clients and has a strong history of providing clients with fair compensation for damages suffered. We look forward to working with you.