Car accidents can happen for many different reasons. However, some common causes of accidents include road debris and flying objects. According to a recent article in The Sentinel, these top causes of collisions are resulting in thousands of car accidents.
Whenever an automobile accident happens, it becomes important to determine the reasons that the crash occurred. A New York personal injury law firm can help in determining who, if anyone, is to blame after a crash caused by road debris. Victims of such a crash could potentially recover for injuries through their own personal injury protection insurance, which is required in New York. If another third party was the cause of the collision and injuries were serious or even fatal, a civil personal injury or wrongful death claim are also possible alternatives for seeking compensation for loss.
Accidents Resulting From Flying Objects and Road Debris
Accidents caused by flying objects and road debris are far more common than most people are aware of. As the Sentinel reports, there were more than 200,000 auto accidents on U.S. roadways in the years from 2011 through 2014 which were the result of debris on the roads. This disturbing statistic was derived from research conducted by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.
The accidents which are occurring are not just minor ones where property is damaged- people are being hurt or are even being killed. Approximately 500 fatalities have been linked to crashes from debris on the roads. An additional 39,000 people have been hurt in crashes resulting from road debris.
These crashes caused by road debris are more likely to occur on interstates, as opposed to other roads. Higher volumes of traffic on interstates can make it harder for drivers to respond when they see debris in the roadway so they can safely avoid it. In general, however, accidents involving road debris can happen anywhere. Crashes which occur as a result of debris flying from vehicles have increased 40 percent since 2001, so the problem is becoming more serious.
Drivers are expected to make sure they do not contribute to the problem of road debris by avoiding having objects fly off their vehicles. Those who are driving with any type of load should make certain that everything is appropriately secured. This could mean tying heavy objects directly to a truck or to a trailer. Loads which could result in loose debris on the roads should be covered with a net or should be covered with a tarp. If a driver fails to secure a load and flying objects from that load cause accidents by hitting others or creating dangerous debris, that driver or his employer could potentially be held responsible.
Rosenberg, Minc, Falkoff & Wolff offers assistance to collision victims who want help pursing a claim for compensation after they get hurt due to road debris or flying objects. To find out more about the ways in which compensation and benefits might be available to you following a crash, call an attorney as soon as you can.
