When you think of dangers on the road, you probably picture congested city streets and rush hour traffic. However, rural auto accidents are more likely to be fatal than city crashes. High speeds, alcohol, reduced access to medical care, and other factors lead to the alarming number of rural fatalities. If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a rural accident, the attorneys of Wilhelm & Roemersma can help you obtain financial compensation. This money can help with property damage, medical bills, lost wages, and many other expenses following an accident. To learn more about auto accidents and rural roads, contact our Pennsylvania and New Jersey offices.
Rural Road Accident and Fatality Statistics
In 2012, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration issued a comprehensive study of rural and urban auto accidents. According to this study, in 2010, there were 30,196 fatal accidents. Of those accidents, 54 percent took place in rural areas. This means that for every 100 million miles travelled, the death rate was 2.5 times higher in rural regions.
Examining the Causes of Rural Auto Accidents
There are many factors that lead to rural crashes. However, some of the most common causes include:
- Speeding: The NHTSA reports that high speed is a factor in almost one-third of all fatal accidents. Speeding is involved in 32 percent of rural crashes and 31 percent of urban accidents.
- Drunk driving: 55 percent of all alcohol-related accidents took place on rural roads. Fortunately, drunk driving accidents in rural areas decreased by 30 percent between 2001 and 2010. Nevertheless, the problem still remains a huge national concern.
- Not using seatbelts: In 2012, there were 22,187 passenger fatalities in the United States. 53 percent of the passengers in rural areas were not wearing seatbelts. 48 percent of urban passengers were unrestrained.
- Less access to medical care: In rural areas, hospitals and emergency workers are spread out across long distances. Therefore, seriously injured victims are less likely to receive timely care. The NHTSA reports that in 2010, 21,016 drivers died in the United States. Of those victims, 64 percent of rural drivers died at the scene. A much lower 49 percent of urban drivers passed away at the crash site. 71 percent of rural drivers died on the way to the hospital. 29 percent of urban drivers died en route.
Are You Entitled to Financial Compensation?
If you or a loved one has been involved in a rural accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Your accident may have left you with extensive property damage, high medical bills, the costs of physical therapy, lost wages, and other losses. If a loved one died in an auto accident, we know that financial compensation is small comfort during this time. However, these funds can help cover funeral expenses and lost family support. With this assistance, you can focus on healing and rebuilding your life.
Driver error or negligence is the most common cause of rural accidents. Defective cars, poor road maintenance, and similar factors can also contribute to an accident. Mr. Harris will evaluate every aspect of your accident to obtain the full amount of money you deserve.
Contact Us for a Case Evaluation
If you have been involved in an auto accident, contact our attorneys. We offer aggressive representation. At the same time, we will treat you with compassion and respect as you deal with the trauma of an auto accident.
