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Summer isn’t just about sunshine and relaxation; it’s also road trip season. Families pile into cars, the music blasts, and the open road beckons. But along with the carefree vibes of summer comes an unfortunate truth: car crash rates significantly increase during the warmer months. If you've been injured in a summer accident, understanding the reasons behind the spike and knowing your legal options can help you regain control when life feels chaotic.
Why Do Car Crashes Spike During Summer?
You’re not imagining it. Statistically, summer sees more car crashes than any other time of the year, and several factors contribute to these alarming numbers.
1. More Drivers, More Traffic
During summer, the roads are teeming with traffic. Vacationers, road trippers, teenagers off from school, and out-of-state visitors all make for crowded highways. Unfortunately, more cars on the road naturally lead to a higher chance of collisions.
2. Teen Drivers in Action
Summer is a season of freedom for teenagers, many of whom are new drivers. With school out, they’re on the road more frequently, and their inexperience can increase accident risks, especially during night drives or in unfamiliar areas.
3. Distracted Driving
Distracted driving peaks during summer months when people are caught up in multitasking. Whether it’s glancing at GPS directions, checking texts, or passing snacks to the backseat, distractions can lead to critical missed moments on the road.
4. Alcohol Use and Impaired Driving
Summer is synonymous with celebrations, from beach parties to backyard barbecues. Unfortunately, alcohol consumption often plays a role, and impaired driving increases after such gatherings. Holidays like Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day are notorious for heightened DUI incidents and crashes.
5. Celebratory Fireworks and Night Driving
Summer activities like late-night fireworks displays can lead to an influx of night driving. Driving at night comes with reduced visibility, fatigue, and more mistakes, increasing the chance of accidents.
6. Severe Weather Hazards
Summer often brings pop-up thunderstorms and even flooding, creating slick roads and decreasing visibility. When drivers don’t adjust for poor conditions, they risk accidents.
Common Injuries From Summer Car Crashes
Car crashes are unpredictable, and the injuries they cause can upend lives in an instant. Here are some of the most common injuries accident victims face:
1. Whiplash
This soft tissue injury occurs when the neck snaps back and forth violently during a crash. It’s particularly common in rear-end collisions and can lead to chronic pain if untreated.
2. Broken Bones
The force of a car crash can easily cause fractures, ranging from minor breaks to severe injuries requiring immediate surgery.
3. Head Injuries
Even mild collisions can result in a traumatic brain injury (TBI), which occurs when the brain suffers a sudden impact. Symptoms range from headaches and dizziness to long-term cognitive difficulties.
4. Spinal Cord and Back Injuries
The impact of a crash can damage the spinal cord or cause herniated discs, leading to severe pain, mobility issues, and even paralysis.
5. Lacerations and Burns
Shattered glass and deployed airbags often cause cuts, while vehicle fires or friction burns can lead to significant skin injuries.
6. Internal Injuries
Unseen injuries, such as internal bleeding or organ damage, can be life-threatening if not identified quickly.
What to Do After a Summer Car Crash
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. The steps you take immediately after the crash can make all the difference for your recovery and your ability to pursue compensation.
1. Prioritize Medical Attention
Your health is the top priority. Seek medical care even if your injuries seem minor; many symptoms, like whiplash or internal bleeding, might not appear right away.
2. Document Everything
Take photos of the accident scene, visible injuries, and any damage to vehicles. Jot down details about the crash, such as the time, location, and weather conditions. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information.
3. File a Police Report
Calling the police ensures the accident is documented. A police report can later serve as key evidence if you choose to file a personal injury claim.
4. Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance provider, but stick to the facts. Avoid admitting fault or making statements that could complicate your case.
5. Speak With an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer
Navigating legal claims after an accident can feel daunting. A personal injury attorney will know exactly how to handle insurance companies, gather evidence, and fight for the compensation you’re entitled to.
How a Personal Injury Attorney Can Help
If you've been injured in a summer car crash, you might be left facing expensive medical bills, lost income, and emotional stress. A qualified personal injury attorney can simplify the process of seeking compensation so you can focus on getting your life back. Here’s how they can assist:
- Thorough Investigation: An attorney will investigate the details of the accident, collecting key evidence such as traffic cam footage, witness statements, and medical documentation.
- Determining Fault: Whether the incident involved another driver, a poorly maintained road, or a manufacturing defect, your lawyer will identify the responsible party.
- Negotiating With Insurance: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. A skilled attorney will advocate for a fair settlement that covers all of your losses.
- Filing a Lawsuit: If negotiations don’t succeed, your attorney can take the case to court and fight for your rights.
Oxnard Car Accident Attorney
If you find yourself facing the aftermath of a road trip crash or need legal advice, don't hesitate to reach out to professional services that understand the intricacies of personal injury cases. At Crane Flores, LLP in Santa Barbara, CA, we are here to support you every step of the way, ensuring your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at (805) 628-4967 and let us navigate the complexities of your case while you focus on recovery and getting back on the road safely.