Research is ongoing to determine how and why car accidents happen and to determine ways to prevent them. For Illinois drivers, there are certain activities that can lead to a greater risk of being in a crash. These crashes can result in injuries with significant medical expenses and the loss of a loved one in a fatal car accident. Some research is indicating that those in Illinois and throughout the Midwest are in greater danger than people in other parts of the U.S.
Recent studies have shown that those in the Midwest are the worst in the country for texting and driving and going through yellow lights. This information was accrued through a survey of 2,000 drivers across the U.S. It was found that more than 17 percent of people in the Midwest stated that they text and drive. This is compared to 15.7 percent in the South, 14.6 percent in the Northeast and 13.7 percent in the West. In addition, nearly 41 percent of drivers in the Midwest confessed to speeding through yellow signals.
This study was conducted by a Florida vehicle retailer – the largest in the U.S. Overall, more than 68 percent of drivers admitted to going above the speed limit. Half said they made obscene gestures to other drivers. More than half said they honk their horns if a traffic light turns green and the driver ahead of them does not drive. Nearly 31 percent said they threw garbage out of their window. Over 19 percent said they drove without insurance. More than 16 percent said they turned without signaling. Nearly 14 percent drove without wearing a seatbelt.
Across the nation, fatal car crashes have risen by eight percent in comparison to 2015. This is the largest rise in 50 years. While there are many theories to explain the behaviors of drivers and the increase in fatal accidents, those who are affected by a crash will have many other issues that will come to the forefront. These include medical costs, dealing with the emotional and financial ramifications of a loved one dying and more. It is imperative that a full investigation into an automobile accident be done to make certain that all the information is gathered to consider a legal filing to be compensated. An attorney can help.
Source: Chicago Tribune, “Midwesterners worst for texting while driving, racing through yellow lights: survey,” Mary Wisniewski, Dec. 4, 2016
