Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, highways, interstates, and roads across the United States have actually become more dangerous despite less traffic.
Each year, around 40,000 people are killed on U.S. roadways. However, if current trends continue, we could see the number rise.
If you are involved in a car accident during this already tumultuous time, the car accident attorneys at Olson Personal Injury Lawyers can help you with your case. We represent victims in Denver and throughout Colorado, as well as Cheyenne and throughout Wyoming.
Call us today for a free case review.
Highway Accidents During the Coronavirus Pandemic
In March, during a time when many of us were staying home to self-isolate from the spread of the coronavirus, the rate of fatal car accidents per mile driven actually increased by 14 percent, according to a report by the National Safety Council.
The data was pulled from all 50 states as well as Washington, D.C., indicating an alarming nationwide trend. In Los Angeles, the Department of Transportation estimated that average speeds around the city increased by 30 percent. Public safety officers are working to correct the issue by:
- Adjusting stop light timers to stop speeders on surface streets
- Increasing police presence along highways, interstates, and other roads
- Asking the public to please be aware of the increase in pedestrian and bike traffic
These changes will not always stop reckless driving, so be on alert while on the road. In other words, it may end up being hazardous for you to drive during the pandemic, so exercise caution when making essential trips to the grocery store or to work.
This trend is also distressing during a time when emergency response teams and resources are stretched thin caring for high-risk COVID-19 patients.
Car Accident Claims and Lawsuits During Lockdown
If you do get into a car accident during lockdown, then make sure to first call 911 and get the medical treatment you need. You should also search for the best car accident lawyer near you. If you do sustain a car accident injury, keep detailed records of what happened to you and a copy of your medical records.
It is important to note the court system may be backed up because of the coronavirus. Our car accident injury lawyers can still help you work through the case and navigate this unprecedented situation with you. Our goal will be to seek the full and fair compensation you deserve as soon as possible.
Safety Tips for Road Trips During Coronavirus
If you go on a road trip during the coronavirus pandemic, make sure to practice defensive driving. Keep an eye out for reckless drivers and let them get ahead of you to avoid being involved in a car accident with them.
If you have a passenger who can see the license plates, have them write it down and then call in to report the reckless driving.
Other safety tips to follow during a road trip right now include:
- Practice social distancing as much as possible. If you do end up the victim of a car crash and can safely get out of your car, then stay at least six feet away from the occupants of the other car.
- Wear disposable gloves and a mask when you need to interact with others. Try to minimize your interactions with other people, but make sure you have disposable gloves and a mask on hand to protect yourself and others from viruses and germs.
- Use hand sanitizer before and after getting gas. The virus could spread easily by contact with gas pumps and payment touchpads. Make sure you use proper hand sanitizer to reduce the virus spread.
- Wipe down common touchpoints in your car. As you get in and out of your car on a road trip, you will touch door handles, seat belts, gear shift, steering wheel, radio, cupholders, and other areas frequently. Wipe them down with sanitizing spray. Novel coronavirus can live on surfaces for days.
What’s the Risk of Public Transit During This Pandemic?
Hearing that fatality rates have increased may make you consider taking public transit to be safer, but that may not be the best option either.
During the pandemic, so far, more than 40 transit workers in New York City have died from the coronavirus, according to USA Today. Taking public transit is a necessity for many essential workers in this country, but it does pose a risk to everyone on the bus or train.
Not everyone is adhering to the safety guidelines when it comes to wearing a mask. As many public transit options have waived fares during this time, people are being exposed to others who may not have access to hand sanitizer or hand washing options.
While ridership overall has dropped significantly, those using the transit systems face a risk of contracting COVID-19.
Contact Our Car Accident Attorneys
At Olson Personal Injury Lawyers, we know that many of you have concerns about the coronavirus pandemic, and we do, too. If you’ve been hurt in a car accident in the Colorado or Wyoming, you will not even need to come into our office for a consultation. Currently, we are holding meetings remotely and can talk with you via a phone call or on video conferencing tools such as Skype, FaceTime, Zoom, and GoToMeeting.
If you are ready to speak with an experienced Denver car accident attorney, we are ready to take your call. Contact us today to set up your free consultation with us.
