Traffic patterns change regularly because of these and other factors:
- Road construction zones
- Detours of all durations
- Narrower traffic lanes
- Barriers
- Prohibited turn
- New signage, lights, and arrows
- Different hours of traffic congestion and open roads
- Previous car accidents and rubbernecking
Today, drivers of all ages face new challenges because of road construction and constantly changing traffic patterns. These challenges are complicated by traffic patterns that have changed due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Traffic congestion, disruptive traffic flows, and unanticipated travel conditions worsen driving conditions.
Preliminary data from the National Safety Council (NSC) for 2020 estimates that around 42,060 people died in motor vehicle accidents. This represents a spike of eight percent from 2019, despite 13 percent fewer miles that were driven that year. The data suggests a 24 percent higher death rate on the roads. The chance of a fatality due to a traffic accident has risen, despite fewer cars on the road during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Changing road patterns result from physical road conditions and the ebbs and flows of traffic. The chance of an accident can be traced to these subtle changes.
How can Motorists Prevent Car Accidents?
Motorists need to be more aware of their surroundings and traffic during their drives. Listening to the radio for traffic alerts or having the navigation device running does not constitute as safe driving.
Auto safety features, such as blind spot warnings, lane departure warnings, and emergency stopping, do not replace the driver. Motorists must still practice safe driving, despite important safety features. High-risk situations on the roads and streets are magnified when drivers ignore them.
When you are behind the wheel of your car, do not ignore changes in the traffic pattern, no matter the cause. If you become injured in a car accident due to a careless driver, you may have legal options. You should speak to a lawyer if you need help with a severe car accident injury.
Media Car Accident Lawyers at Eckell Sparks Assist Injured Drivers
If you were involved in a car accident because of another driver’s negligence, you should speak to a lawyer about what steps to take. Changing traffic patterns may cause more car accidents, and drivers may act more recklessly as well. Our Media car accident lawyers at Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C. can help you with your case. Contact us online or call us at 610-565-3701 for an initial consultation. Located in Media and West Chester, Pennsylvania, we serve clients throughout Delaware County, Chester County, and Montgomery County.