New technology and conveniences may not be in the best interest of drivers, publishes billhurst.com
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Traffic accidents are on the rise on a global scale according to a recent report from the Association for Safe International Road Travel. An estimated 3,280 people lose their lives each day as a result of these accidents with as many as 50 million injured per year. Attorneys like those with the Law Office of William W. Hurst have seen a number of changes in factors leading up to these crashes.
Only a few decades ago, speed, alcohol and illegal drugs were the primary culprits in crashes. Though these issues remain in play, they are continually being pushed further down in the rankings.
Evolving Factors in Automobile Accidents
Almost 4.2 billion prescriptions were filled last year in the United States alone. In certain countries where restrictions are more lax and medications are less expensive, the numbers are a bit higher. As this number increases, more people are likely to get behind the wheel under the influence of powerful painkillers, anti-anxiety pills and other medications in their systems unaware of how they may be affected. Despite being safe for users, many of these prescription drugs can lead to drowsiness, dizziness and confusion as well as an uptick in the number of accidents stemming from their use.
Lack of understanding of basic rules of the road has likewise gained steam during the last decade. Based on a survey conducted by GMAC insurance, at least one in five licensed drivers would fail a driving test if forced to take one. More than 80 percent of those polled did not know how to proceed when approaching a steady yellow traffic light, and 25 percent were unaware of safe following distance rules. At the same time, numerous drivers are unsure of what to do at four-ways stops or malfunctioning traffic lights.
Dependence on driver-assist features has likewise emerged as a cause of accidents in recent years. Drivers, particularly those in their late teens through early thirties, tend to rely too heavily on newer vehicles’ lane-keeping, braking, parking and amenities designed to improve safety. While these features can help prevent accidents in certain circumstances, they are only meant to be used as supplements to human skill and attentiveness.
This leads to the most common cause of accidents among modern drivers: distractions. Distracted driving has been an issue since the invention of the first automobile, but it has certainly ramped up in recent years. Smartphones and other mobile devices are undeniable contributors though built-in Wi-Fi hotspots, Blutooth connectivity and other luxuries with which modern vehicles are equipped are culprits as well.
Determining Fault in an Accident
While personal injury expertise is key in receiving compensation for victims of these accidents, determining where fault lies has become a bit more of a gray area of late. Though motorists make the decision to drive after taking prescription medications, some might argue responsibility for accidents stemming from this issue actually lies with the prescribing physician or pharmaceutical company in charge of its distribution. In cases where injuries stem from the use of driver-assist features, those who manufactured or programmed the equipment may potentially be liable.
As the leading factors in automobile accidents continue to evolve, legislation may need to be revised to compensate. New parameters regarding causation and accountability will likely need to be developed as well. In the meantime, more conservative use of prescription medications and mandatory driving refresher courses may have to suffice.
Contact Info:
Name: Chase Wilson
Email: Send Email
Organization: The Law Office of William W Hurst
Website: https://billhurst.com/
Source URL: https://marketersmedia.com/evolving-society-leads-to-changes-in-common-vehicle-accident-causes/88892875
Source: MarketersMEDIA
Release ID: 88892875
