4 Weird (And Really Sad) Car Accident Facts

Over 6 million car accidents happen annually in the US alone.

That equates to roughly 11.4 car accidents per minute. The sad thing is that most of these could have been avoided if people were simply sober or not checking their phone.

Read the car accident facts below to see how weirdly easy it is to get into an accident.

4 Weird Car Accident Facts

Mental impairment, distractions, all it takes is a few bad decisions to horribly ruin your life or someone else’s.

The next time you get in your car, you may want to keep these facts in mind.

1. There’s No Difference Between Being 70 Years Old and Using Your Mobile

Research has uncovered that those who use mobile phones are not only distracted but their reaction time is significantly impaired.

In fact, when they compared the numbers, the found out that people on their mobiles had the exact same reaction time as 70-year-olds. Because of this, over 1.6 million accidents occur every single year causing hundreds of thousands in injuries and fatalities.

When you hear your phone beep, it’s better to just ignore it and wait until you get to your destination.

2. Being Near Your Home is Dangerous

Statistically, you are significantly more likely to be in an accident within three miles of your own home.

This makes sense when you think about it. Often, we feel more relaxed around familiar streets and so may not be as alert as normal.

It’s also supported by the fact above which suggests this is the time people are most likely to be on their phone telling someone they’re just leaving or almost home.

3. You Drink, You Die

If you’ve been out drinking and get behind the wheel, there’s a 40% chance that you will die or kill someone.

Let’s be clear, this statistic is not about how likely you are to get into a car accident which is 300% more likely even at the legal limit and 1300% if you go over by double.

This is linked to the number of deaths as a result of drunk driving. You wouldn’t take the risk of death on a coin toss so this is no different.

4. Crashes Cost All of Us Money

When factoring economic and social factors, crashes cost the US $871 billion each year.

When a car crash happens, the police are called, sometimes ambulances and tow trucks. Not only that but if the car smashed into a railing or a lamp post guess who pays to repair it? That’s right, every taxpayer.

Not only that but it causes delays, disruptions, and can shatter lives causing breakdowns and loss of jobs and homes.

Broken down, the means we all pay roughly $900 each a year.

Be Safe

Car crashes are terrifying and traumatic experiences. And as the above car accident facts show they can mostly be avoided simply by being sober and keeping focused on the road.

Of course, things aren’t always your fault so using a car accident lawyer is sometimes an essential step to get the help and money you deserve.

Check out our other articles for more weird facts and stories.

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