Autumn in New Jersey may be beautiful, but it is also a time of year that leads to an increase in car accidents and injuries. Learning the most common causes of these injuries can help you stay safe.
Decreased Visibility
Not only do the days get shorter as we head into the fall season, but with daylight savings time, it also gets darker earlier. This can lead to decreased visibility, which can increase the risk of both driver and pedestrian accidents. Weather changes can also lead to foggy weather, further making it difficult to notice other drivers or pedestrians on the road.
Distracted Driving
Driver’s may be more distracted in the fall months, especially if they’re viewing the beautiful fall foliage. Additionally, fall is when many children go back to school, which can begin the busy hustle and bustle time of year for families. Drivers may also feel more tempted to reach for their smartphones to check their schedules.
Driving Under The Influence
Fall quickly turns into Halloween and Thanksgiving, which can be common holidays for drivers under the influence. Driving under the influence can reduce your reaction time and increase the risk for everyone on the road. It can also lead to expensive fines and legal charges.
Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents can also be a common occurrence during the fall months as motorcyclists try to squeeze the last few days of riding in. Drivers may be focused on other things and fail to look out for motorcycles on the road. Motorcyclists may be met with inclement weather, which can affect their ability to ride.
Tips To Stay Safe
Here are a few tips you can use to stay safe this fall:
- Preventative maintenance: Ensure your headlights and wipers work well before heading out on the road.
- Avoid distractions: Always take advantage of any hands-free technologies available in your vehicle.
- Check the weather before leaving: It’s always a good idea to check the weather before leaving, whether you’re a driver or a motorcyclist.
- Know the laws: It’s also a good idea to know the state laws as they apply to both drivers and pedestrians.
- Know when to pull over: If you’re distracted by other drivers on the road, or you need to take an important phone call, know when to pull over.
- Slow down: If visibility is reduced, slow down. If you’re still not comfortable, pull over and wait for it to improve.
- Avoid fatigued driving: Fatigued driving can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence. Get a good night of sleep and know when to pull over to rest.
- Give yourself ample time: Give yourself ample time to reach your destination to avoid speeding.
Know When To Talk To A Personal Injury Lawyer
If you’re injured due to someone else’s negligence, including driving under the influence or distracted driving, they may be responsible for your total costs. Whether you were injured while driving a vehicle or walking the city as a pedestrian, you have legal rights. Reach out to a personal injury lawyer today to find out what compensation options may be available.
Contact A Little Falls Personal Injury Lawyer To Discuss Your Autumn Accident Case In New Jersey
Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries due to an accident in New Jersey? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. The skilled attorneys at Camili & Capo, PA represent clients injured because of an accident in Little Falls, Cedar Grove, Fairfield, Cladwell, and throughout New Jersey. Call (973) 834-8457 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case. We have an office conveniently located at 1 Lower Notch Road, Little Falls, NJ 07424.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
