CALIFORNIA HAS TWO OF THE DEADLIEST INTERSTATES IN THE COUNTRY

According to one report, California has two of the top ten deadliest interstates in the country. Only the state of Georgia had a deadlier stretch of interstate than California. This is probably no surprise to California motorists who travel our interstates each day. Accidents and traffic backups on California’s I-710 and I-215 are frequent daily occurrences on these known trouble spots for car crashes in our state.

During 2013, Interstate 710 had the most fatalities with seven accidents resulting in eight fatalities, approximately three accidents per mile. Interstate 215 was tenth on the list of deadliest interstates with 14 accidents resulting in 14 deaths making the average 2.1 accidents per mile on I-215. With car crashes being so prevalent throughout California, what can you do to avoid being in an automobile accident?

How to Avoid Car Crashes on California’s Deadliest Interstates

While you cannot control the actions of other drivers, you can take steps to avoid being involved in a vehicle accident on our deadliest interstates and throughout California.

• Do Not Drive While Distracted
  Your focus and attention should always be on the road ahead of you. Distracted driving has become one of the most common reasons for automobile accidents in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) report that approximately one-third of U.S. drivers admit that they send or read text messages while driving. Almost 70% of drivers in this country admit to using the cell phone while driving. Distracted driving has replaced drunk driving as the number one reasons for teenage fatalities resulting from car accidents.California has strict laws regarding the use of cell phones and other mobile devices while driving. However, this is not the only form of distracted driving. Grooming, eating, adjusting the vehicle controls, talking to passengers, reading, and other distractions contribute to the number of Sacramento car accidents each year. Decreasing your distractions while driving can save lives by avoiding accidents.
• Do Not Tailgate
  Following too closely is another common cause of California car accidents. Tailgating is common in traffic, especially when drivers feel rushed and frustrated. Leaving more distance between you and the vehicle in front of you can avoid accidents. During inclement weather, at night, and in heavy traffic, increase the distance between you and the car in front of you. Remember, as your speed increases so should the distance between you and other vehicle. Leaving sufficient space between you and other vehicles is one of the best ways to avoid a vehicle crash in California.
• Obey the Speed Limit
  Obeying the speed limit not only reduces your risk of receiving a California traffic ticket but it also decreases your risk for a car accident. Your risk of being involved in an automobile accident increases when you exceed the posted speed limit. Speed limits are set by the Department of Transportation based on research, studies, and road specifications. Speed limits are not mere “suggestions” — speed limits are based on specific calculations designed to reduce the risk of accidents.
• Beware of Parking Lots
  Parking lots are the scene of many accidents as drivers fail to yield the right of way or drivers fail to check before they back out of spaces. When you are in parking lot, always pay attention to everything around you, do not rely solely on mirrors or backup systems, and drive slowly. Distracted driving and excessive speed are common causes of parking lot accidents.

What Should I Do if I am the Victim of a Car Accident in Sacramento, CA?

As with any automobile accident in California, if you are involved in a car crash in Sacramento, seek immediate medical attention. Your health is your top priority. When you are physically able, you should contact Tiemann Law Firm to schedule your free consultation with one of our Sacramento personal injury attorneys.

You can contact us online, call our toll free number at (916) 999-9000, or chat with a representative on our website. Our friendly staff is here to help you as you recover from injuries caused by a negligent driver.