Although the precise figures vary from year to year, various studies have revealed that most car accidents happen no more than a few miles from home. For example, in one particular survey, researchers determined that 77 percent of the collisions they studied occurred within 15 miles of the motorist’s home.
This figure may seem surprising. After all, one might assume that crashes are more likely when drivers are unfamiliar with their surroundings; however, there are actually several reasons why most accidents happen near the home.
If you were involved in a collision a few miles from the house despite knowing your neighborhood inside and out, you may be entitled to compensation for the damages incurred. Contact Laborde Earles Law Firm to discuss the circumstances of the incident and determine if you have grounds for a claim.
Our legal team has 250 years of combined experience, not to mention the resources, dedication, and manpower to take on even the largest insurance agencies. Call us to schedule a free case evaluation with a personal injury attorney in Marksville.
Read on to learn why most car accidents happen near the home:
We like to think that the areas around our homes are the safest places for us. Part of the reason accidents happen so close to home has to do with the “close to home effect.”
As drivers get closer to familiar areas, they are more likely to engage in riskier behaviors. In addition, there are undoubtedly close-to-home factors that influence how we drive when we get close to home.
Driving Distractions When Setting Out or Returning
When you set out for a new location, do you enter the destination in your GPS before leaving the driveway, or do you do so while en route? Inputting information in a navigation system is one of the most common driving distractions, and it often occurs near the home.
People are also likely to text and drive within a few miles of their home. For example, if they are meeting up with friends, they might let them know they’re on the way after getting behind the wheel. Likewise, those who are running late might feel inclined to notify the loved ones who are waiting at home.
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Driving While Drinking Alcohol
Impaired driving can also contribute to accidents. When people drink alcohol, it lowers their ability to think clearly and drive safely. And this action is more likely to happen when drivers aren’t far from home.
For example, let’s say you go to a party with your friends. You are one hundred miles from home. Are you going to drive home? Maybe, but consider the far more likely scenario: You go out for a few drinks with some friends. You are a bit impaired at the end of the night, but your house is only three miles away. Suddenly, driving home sounds much more tempting.
Limited Visibility in Driveways
When people have limited visibility, it can increase the risk for accidents. Driveways present a unique challenge. There is often limited space, and it might be challenging to see because of other parked cars, trees, or other at-home obstacles.
People who live off fairly busy roads should always exercise caution when backing out of their driveway. Of course, even those who live in quieter, suburban neighborhoods should make it a point to double-check their mirrors before pulling out because other vehicles—or pedestrians—can seemingly come out of nowhere.
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Overconfidence When Driving the Same Route
It is not uncommon for muscle memory to kick in when driving home from work. After all, you’ve driven it how many times since you got that job three years ago? You know the way like the back of your hand. If you fail to remain alert even when passing familiar scenery, though, an unanticipated hazard can cause a devastating collision.
Be aware that just because the route is familiar does not permit you to check out mentally. Follow safe driving practices instead of getting distracted by what you plan to make for dinner.
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Speeding When You Are Almost Home
Finally, when drivers get close to home, they can increase their speed. Speeding increases your risk of being in an accident.
For example, let’s say your wife called you and told you to come home right away. You might be worried about why she called. You’re worried and need to get home as soon as possible. It could be easy to speed as you get close to home.
When you speed, you are less likely to stop safely. Any time you speed, you run the risk of hitting another vehicle, a bike, or a pedestrian. You also run the risk of losing control of your car.
Convenient Geographical Spread
One of the main reasons most collisions happen near the home is the fact that most trips take place near the home. Unless you live in a fairly remote area, you may never have to drive more than 15 or 20 miles to run errands, go to work, or meet up with friends. When you consider this simple fact, it’s actually not surprising that most car accidents occur within a few miles of the house.
If You Have Experienced a Car Accident Near Your Home
After a car accident, you might not know what you should do next. First of all, make sure you get treatment for any injuries. Document through photos and video where your accident happened and what damages occurred.
Make sure to talk with your insurance company to get the process of settling claims started as soon as possible. A car accident lawyer can help you with your case. They can help you determine who was at fault and what compensation you might be able to get.
Talk to a Lawyer
If you were hurt in a crash near your home despite following the rules of the road, turn to Laborde Earles Law Firm. We have helped other clients get millions in compensation after motor vehicle accidents. Call us or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer in Marksville.
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