What are Common Causes of Summer Car Accidents?
There are many factors to consider when driving in summer, including teenage motorists, tourists, road construction, and vehicle maintenance. Drivers should learn about these causes because it can help reduce their risk of a car accident if they know how to avoid them. Listed below are the most common causes of summer car accidents.
Teenage Drivers
Teenage drivers do not have much driving experience, and many of them do not abide by road rules and regulations. Teenagers are more likely to speed and race other vehicles, run red lights, disregard street signs, drive while drowsy, and drive under the influence. Additionally, distracted driving is common among teenage drivers. New or young drivers are subject to be distracted. Passengers, cellphones, music, grooming, other cars, and reaching for objects are typical forms of distracted driving.
In the summer, drunk driving car accidents also increase because of holidays, such as Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day. Teenage drivers should be aware of the dangers of drunk driving. If a teenager plans to drink during a summer holiday event, they should arrange for a safe ride home ahead of time.
Tourists
During summer, many people will travel and take vacations, especially around long holiday weekends. However, tourists may not be familiar with road rules and regulations, street signs, directions, or even the flow of traffic, which can cause crashes. When driving in an unfamiliar area, it is important to be extra cautious.
Road Construction
The warm weather in the summer months causes more people to go outside and travel. Some of the most common causes of summer car accidents are related to road construction. During the summer, construction workers take advantage of the warmer weather to repair damages from winter and rain storms. During this time, many roads are blocked and the lanes are narrowed and shifted suddenly, which can leave minimal time for drivers to make decisions in emergencies.
In summer, drivers of all ages are exposed to increased traffic, more concrete barriers, and poor road surfaces due to construction. These minor inconveniences while driving are some of the main causes of car accidents. Since road construction will increase in summer, motorists should be on the lookout for work areas. Motorists should drive with caution when signs for construction work are approaching.
Improperly Maintained Vehicles
The maintenance of a vehicle is something that should not be overlooked, especially in the hot and humid summer months. When drivers disregard the seasonal upkeep of their tires, they may suffer from harsh consequences during the middle of summer. When the temperature increases to such high levels, the ground becomes a hot plate for tires, which then leads to the possibility of a tire blowout.
A tire blowout can cause serious consequences. No matter the location of the tire blowout, a car can spin out of control, run off the road, crash into a barrier, road shoulder, or even another vehicle. It is strongly encouraged that vehicle maintenance is attend to before the warm weather begins. A vehicle should be maintained regularly.
Fault and Car Accidents in New Jersey
A main factor that will make or break a car accident case is proving fault. In New Jersey, a personal injury protection (PIP) claim is typically filed. This is intended to be used when a claim is made with a person’s own auto insurance provider. PIP provides the driver with coverage up to the limits of their own policy, usually documented for their medical needs and expenses.
Some choose to purchase PIP coverage in case there is an event with significant expenses and losses. Common car accident-related damages include compensation for lost wages and even death benefits and funeral expenses. A car accident victim must understand that every case is different, so not all procedures will apply in the same manner.
In the state of New Jersey, it is imperative to prove that the other party caused the collision and that an injury is severe. Proving fault will be important when trying to recover compensation after a car accident. A victim can speak to a lawyer for help proving their claim. A lawyer can guide their client and explain their rights. A lawyer will fight on their client’s behalf and follow the right procedures and file the right paperwork.
Highland Park Car Accident Lawyers at the Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr Help Clients with Summer Car Crash Cases
The Highland Park car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr know how serious collisions increase in summer, and we can protect your rights. Drivers encounter many hazards in the summer months, and if you were recently injured in a collision, we can advise you on how to proceed with your case. Complete our online form or call us at 732-537-8570 for a free consultation. We are located in Highland Park, New Jersey, and we serve clients throughout New Brunswick, Somerset, Piscataway, Edison, South River, Sayreville, Metuchen, East Brunswick, South Plainfield, Fords, Middlesex, Old Bridge, Iselin, Bound Brook, Perth Amboy, Colonia, Elizabeth, and Newark.
