According to the Arizona Department of Transportation, in just one year, the state experienced approximately 98,778 motor vehicle crashes, which killed over 1,050 individuals, and left around 41,350 people with significant injuries. Yet, while these crashes resulted for several different reasons, in the below guide, we will go over the top causes of Arizona car accidents and what to do following these devastating crashes.
Excessive Speeding
Speeding is the most common driver violation in Arizona. In fact, every year, there are around 337 people killed in the state because of speed-related crashes.
Higher speeds are more likely to cause an accident because the faster a motorist drives, the longer it will take them to stop. In addition, speeding also increases the stopping distance, as well as the force of impact. As a result, when a motorist is going 40mph, they will not only travel twice as far compared to a motorist traveling at 20 mph, but the force of impact will be four times greater.
Driving While Impaired
Over 274 people in Arizona are killed annually because of impairment-related crashes. These accidents, which involved illegal drugs, prescription medications, alcohol, and marijuana, accounted for about 6% of all crashes and 25% of fatal crashes in the state.
When individuals decide to get behind the wheel while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they are more inclined to take part in reckless driving behavior, such as speeding, running red lights, swerving in and out of traffic, and even going the wrong way, which can result in catastrophic accidents.
Distracted Driving
When drivers do not pay attention to the road and instead focus on other activities, such as eating, playing with the radio, or texting while driving, it can lead to devastating consequences. Even when a motorist takes their eyes away from the road for a second, it can significantly delay their reaction time and increase their risk of causing a deadly crash.
Not Paying Attention to Traffic Laws
While obeying traffic laws helps keep individuals and motorists in Arizona safe, this safe driving behavior does not always happen. Every year, there are countless deadly car accidents because motorists ignore traffic laws. These infractions include things such as:
- Running a red light
- Ignoring traffic signs and signals
- Not making a complete stop at a stop sign
- Failing to yield
- Making illegal turns
- Passing illegally
- Following a car too closely
Contact Territorial Law, LLC Today for a Free Case Evaluation
If you or a loved one suffered injuries in an Arizona car accident due to another person’s reckless, intentional, or negligent actions, you may be entitled to compensation for the harm and losses you endured. More importantly, you do not have to go after this financial recovery alone. When you retain an experienced Arizona car accident attorney, these legal professionals can handle your legal claim for you and fight for the justice you deserve while you focus on more important things, such as your healing and recovery.
For more information regarding Arizona car accidents and your legal options following these crashes, contact Territorial Law, LLC today to schedule a free case evaluation, or call us at 928.543.5092.