In Connecticut, as in other states, rural roads are often the most dangerous. They tend to have higher speeds, and there is less traffic and fewer resources available to address Connecticut car accidents and injuries.
In fact, according to a study conducted by TRIP, a national transportation research group, Connecticut’s rural roads are a lot more dangerous than urban roads. What is causing this alarming trend? What can be done to make these roads safer?
Keep on reading to find out!
Why Are Connecticut Rural Roads Dangerous?
Driving Connecticut rural roads is dangerous no matter the time of year, but winter makes it even more hazardous. Connecticut has a series of winding country roads, many through hills and other mountainous terrains.
If you think you know everything about this type of road, look again and see if the following facts change your mind:
1. It’s Busy
Out here, there is no such thing as an empty road; they are bursting with cars and trucks often speeding along the open stretches of land.
There may be seemingly endless miles between towns, but people don’t like to travel them unless they have to — including the local fire department trying to get from one side of town to another or even ambulances rushing someone to a nearby hospital.
2. Speeding Is Common
It’s very common for drivers to speed on these roads. They might as well wear neon-colored signs that read “I’m in a rush” as they speed along the roads.
There are definitely drowsy drivers out here too, but not nearly as many as those who are simply trying to get where they are going faster than everyone else.
3. Few Traffic Laws Apply
If someone is speeding on the highway, there isn’t much anyone can do about it until you see them weaving between lanes or cutting people off to exit ahead of everyone else.
It’s also common for larger vehicles to drive right down your lane even if two other open spaces are present beside it — all while thinking they’re being careful because they have just enough room to fit between you and another car.
4. Road Rage Is Prevalent
Road rage is very common, both in rural areas and large cities. It’s very important to be aware of your surroundings when driving; anyone can suddenly be a victim of road rage if they accidentally cut off another driver.
How Can You Prevent Connecticut Car Accidents From Happening?
Here’s how Connecticut car accidents can be prevented:
1. Don’t Drive With Distractions
It doesn’t matter whether it’s texting, talking on the phone, or whatever else you like to do in your car when driving. Distractions are distractions, and if they keep you from focusing 100% of your attention on the road — which is where it belongs when you’re behind the wheel of a vehicle — then you shouldn’t be doing them while driving.
2. Drive Safely During Heavy Weather
Driving through heavy rain or snow can increase your chances of hydroplaning, which occurs when there’s too much water for your tires to glide across properly. This results in drivers losing control over their vehicles and ends up with either an accident or near-miss. If possible, stay off roads that have lots of water covering them.
3. Maintain a Safe Following Distance
This is another part of driving that most people do not pay attention to. If you don’t have enough room between your vehicle and the one in front of you, then you can’t stop fast enough if either of you needs to for any reason.
4. Don’t Tailgate
Tailgating also increases your chances of being involved in a car accident by more than 100%. The reason for this is that people who tailgate tend to do things impulsively, like slamming on the brakes or turning their steering wheel quickly in hopes that you’ll either let them into your lane or drive faster so they can pass you.
5. Look Around Before Changing Lanes
We all know how frustrating it can be when someone cuts us off while trying to change lanes. Instead of taking out your anger on another driver, take the time to look around and make sure it’s safe for you to change lanes.
Get Help form Connecticut Car Accident Lawyer
If you live in Connecticut or have been hurt on a rural road, it’s critical to be educated about your rights and the process for seeking compensation. Be sure to contact our skilled Connecticut car accident attorneys at Perkins if you’ve been injured by another driver on a rural road in Connecticut.
We’ll help you get back on track with medical care and legal representation that will allow you to focus more energy where it belongs-on getting better! Contact us today, so we can discuss how we may be able to help put this nightmare behind you once and for all.