People generally think driving long distances is riskier
than driving in your own hometown when it comes to being involved in a car
accident. But statistics provided by the National Highway Traffic and Safety
Administration reveal some interesting facts about car accidents. Of all
crashes that occur in the United States, approximately 52 percent occur within
a five-mile radius from home while 69 percent occurs within 10 miles.
But although the vast majority of car accidents occur close
to home, most of them tend to be relatively minor. Examples of these accidents
could be when you’re leaving your neighborhood and a neighbor pulls out of
their driveway and hits your car on the side. Or you could be at the local
grocery store and someone hits your car while crossing through the parking lot.
On the contrary, while accidents that occur farther from
home are less common, they tend to be more severe. This is especially true for
accidents that occur on busy highways and interstates where vehicles are
traveling at much faster speeds over longer distances.
But why is it that the majority of accidents, minor or not,
occur so close to home?
Research conducted by Progressive Insurance says that
broadly speaking, drivers tend to have a false sense of security when driving
close to home. For example, drivers are less likely to wear their seatbelts
when driving to a local store in the neighborhood.
Another big factor is distractions. People are more likely
to let themselves be distracted when driving around a familiar place where they
feel low at risk. Whether it’s talking on their cellphone, scanning the
radio/ipod or eating while driving, these little things that seem harmless still
divert your attention from the road, which can increase the chances of a
collision. While when driving on a busy highway, for example, people are more
likely to keep their focus on the road and leave the distractions alone.
Remember, just because you’re close to home doesn’t mean
you’re out of the danger zone. Don’t mistake proximity for safety. Even if it’s
a minor accident or fender bender, it still becomes an issue to deal with for
both parties involved. Staying aware and alert at all times when driving can
significantly help you avoid a collision, whether cruising down your street or
traveling in another state.
If
you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in
Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor,
Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield,
Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City
Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys
know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your
feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the
compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow
Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join
the conversation by using #MCAA.
