If you or a loved one has been affected by a summer-related car accident, it is worthwhile to investigate consulting with an auto accident lawyer who can help you determine whether there is any eligibility for compensation stemming from accident-related damages.
There are several different types of car accidents in Michigan that can happen more often during the summer.
1. Teen driving accidents
When school is out for the summer, more teenagers are driving on the roads than usual. This not only can lead to more traffic and congestion but creates an influx of younger, less experienced drivers navigating Michigan’s roadways. This lack of experience, combined with other factors like peer pressure, potential poor judgement, and limited knowledge of the rules of the road, can dramatically increase the number of auto accidents that occur during the summer.
Although some teens may walk away from car accidents with very minor injuries, damages to their own car and the automobile or property that they hit with the car, as well as any other person involved in the accident, can be severe. Property damage that happens during these accidents can also lead to large insurance deductibles.
It is estimated that drivers between the ages of 15 and 20 years old account for more fatalities while on the road than any other age group. When a teen driver causes an accident, it may be necessary to consult with a personal injury lawyer to determine the best way to proceed.
2. Motorcycle crashes
The more temperate climate of the summer brings more motorcyclists out onto the roads. Although motorcyclists abide by a large set of laws designed to keep them safe on the roads, there is still a large danger that they can pose on the road. This danger is especially true if drivers who are sharing the road with motorcyclists do not take the proper precautions.
These precautions can include treating a motorcyclist the same way you would treat a slow-moving vehicle. Give the motorcycle plenty of following distance, make sure there is space between you and the motorcycle if you are merging into their lane, and keep alert to make sure you are not missing any motorcyclists who may be hidden in your car’s blind spot.
3. Traffic accidents
Congestion is higher during the summer because of increased numbers of drivers. This can be dangerous, especially around construction sites and areas where large numbers of vehicles have to slow down and maneuver around obstacles.
If you can, try to avoid areas of high congestion, especially during rush hour or other times when traffic is high. If you need to drive through a congested construction, stay alert and follow all posted road signs to stay safe and ensure that you don’t accidently do something that makes you the target of a legal suit.
Safety tips
Driving distracted can involve driving while talking on the phone, irrespective of whether you use a handsfree phone, or sending text messages. Distracted driving is very dangerous. Keep alert when you are on the road and make sure you are aware of your surroundings.
Always ensure you and your passengers, pets included wear a seatbelt. Young children should use a certified car seat, properly installed, to avoid injury.
If it’s raining, snowing, or when driving at night, slow down. Keep extra distance between you and the vehicle in front of you when driving during bad weather.
If you believe you are eligible to compensation after a summer car accident, contact an auto accident attorney as a matter of urgency.
