Other than the inevitable blips on the radar, we can finally assume that spring has sprung. The air is fresh, April showers bring those May flowers, kids are back outside playing and riding their bikes, it’s time for a picnic, and the Cubs are back in action. Or the White Sox, if you prefer.
Speeds Increase – Carelessness is on the Rise
While spring is generally a joyous time, it also brings a renewed need for caution.
The warmer weather causes increased speeds, and a general failure to follow good responsible driving.
Motorcycles, Bicycles and Pedestrians
The new season brings out the bikes – both regular bicycles and motorcycles. Plus, kids, pets and others are outside much more often.
The United States Department of Transportation reports that motorcycle deaths were declining until 2014. However, motorcycles tragedies are again on the rise. The months of May through September account for 60% of all motorcycle deaths. While the exact reasons are unclear, it continues to be a fact that many cyclists ride without a helmet. What’s more, using cell phones, texting and driving and driving while impaired are becoming even more common, just as it is for cars and trucks.
It shouldn’t be a surprise that spring brings a rise in serious bicycle accidents and deaths.
This is especially true in the case of youngsters. The excitement of being outside causes them to forget about riding safely, and they often dart out into traffic. The same is true for kids playing outside, when a ball suddenly bounces out into the road. As motorists, we need to be extra cautious.
And watch out for our furry friends, too.
Big Trucks, Cars, Weather and Construction Zones
There is nothing more dangerous on our roads and highways than big trucks.
In a collision between an 18-wheeler and a car or motorcycle, the truck almost always wins.
According to FARS, the Fatality Analysis Reporting System of the National Traffic and Highway Safety Administration, “Interstate 65 is the 12th deadliest highway in the country, easily the deadliest per driver mile in Indiana and has been for years.”
We live right in the middle of it.
While the majority of truckers are professional and responsible drivers, too many drive carelessly, text and drive, and operate these monster vehicles while under the influence. What’s more, many work without adequate rest, causing truly dangerous conditions.
Spring also increases the number of construction zones. Often, people ignore or miss warnings of speed reductions and lane changes. This presents an increase risk of accidents, but also endangers highway crews.
While the snow and icy conditions are gone, spring brings new weather concerns – such as rain and storms, which bring slippery conditions and visibility hazards. The best advice is to slow down and do not tailgate. Remember, it takes a big truck much more time to stop than an automobile, and skidding is common. Hydroplaning is a huge safety risk during a storm, and even as little as 1/12 inch of water on the road can be a danger to your vehicle.
Then, there are the potholes. We need not go into detail on how dangerous these can be. Just keep your eyes open and give the road crews time to fix them.
Tauber Law Can Help
Our family of attorneys at Tauber Law Offices wants nothing more than to see you truly enjoy spring and summer. It won’t be long before the kids are out of school and it will be summer vacation time. This is when lifelong pleasant memories should be made. No one wants to face a personal injury.
The reality is, tragedies do happen. It is our mission at Tauber Law to represent anyone who is injured through the fault of others. Whether it be an injury caused by an irresponsible trucker, or someone driving too fast for conditions, we’re always here for you.
If you believe you have a case, contact us immediately. There is never a charge for the initial consultation. Our main concern is your safety and well-being.
