Unfortunately, a car accident can happen any time and place due to negligence. However, it is imperative to note that there is a higher chance of a collision occurring during traffic congestion. This is primarily because drivers’ frustration levels increase while they’re stuck in traffic, which can lead to dangerous driving behaviors that they typically wouldn’t exhibit. Impatience can make drivers more aggressive, which can result in catastrophic accidents. Therefore, drivers must stay calm and alert while navigating heavy traffic to prevent collisions. If you or someone you love has been injured in a traffic congestion-related accident due to another driver’s negligence, contact a skilled New York City Auto Accident Lawyer who can help you fight to obtain the just compensation you deserve for your damages.
What are the most common accidents that occur due to traffic congestion?
Distracted driving accidents are among the most common accidents during traffic congestion. Unfortunately, many drivers drop their guard when stuck in traffic jams. Some drivers take out their phones to text, call, or browse through social media. Other drivers may take out snacks to eat or apply makeup while behind the wheel. However, engaging in these dangerous driving behaviors can increase the risk of a collision as they divert attention away from the road.
Alongside distracted driving, frustration levels typically rise while drivers are stuck in traffic. As such, they may be tempted to make a U-turn to search for a quicker alternative route to reach their destination. If a driver does not adequately assess the road before making a U-turn, they risk being hit by oncoming traffic. In addition, they risk colliding with the vehicle behind them while reversing or sideswiping the car in the next lane. To mitigate the risks of a collision, drivers should refrain from making U-turns to avoid traffic delays.
Moreover, when cars are in a traffic jam, there is very little space between them. This means that if a driver doesn’t maintain a safe distance between their vehicle and the one in front of them, multiple cars could crash into each other. For instance, if you suddenly hit the brake to avoid hitting the car in front of you, the driver behind you may not have enough space or time to stop, causing them to hit you. This could result in a chain reaction, where you may hit the car in front of you, leading to a pile-up accident.
Can road rage lead to an accident?
Road rage accidents are the most common accidents to occur during traffic congestion. When a driver is on edge from being stuck in traffic delays, they may engage in aggressive behaviors such as tailgating, running red lights, weaving in and out of lanes, excessive speeding, and blocking cars to prevent them from switching lanes, especially during rush hour. When drivers are in a hurry, they’re more likely to experience road rage. Engaging in aggressive driving endangers everyone on the road. To prevent accidents, drivers must remain calm and patient during traffic congestion.
If you’ve been injured in an accident due to another driver’s negligence, it is in your best interest to contact a determined lawyer from the Law Offices of Brian J. Elbaum, who can guide you through the complex claims process to seek reasonable compensation for your damages.
