What Fuels Unsafe Driving Statistics In Los Angeles?
There are several factors contributing to the many accidents involving vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists. Too many people drive while they are distracted. This creates an unsafe environment for all others on the roads and sidewalks. Every person who has driven in Los Angeles knows how heavy traffic is on freeways and surface streets, so drivers should pay close attention to the road.
Texting And Driving
One of the most common complains Los Angeles drivers have is other motorists texting while driving. This is a dangerous type of distraction, and it is one of the most common ones in the city and throughout the state of California. Unfortunately, the dangerous trend only seems to grow as more people rely on their phones for both communicating and using the Internet. In 2008, the number of tickets issued for texting totaled 3,000, according to the California Office of Traffic Safety. That number took a drastic jump to 21,000 in 2012.
Other Forms Of Distracted Driving
Eating, talking on the phone, trying to read or to do other things while driving may result in an accident. California police issued 400,000 tickets for distracted driving in 2012, and a considerable portion of those were issued in the Los Angeles metro area. That number was an increase of more than 30 percent since 2012, so statistics indicate that the problem is only worsening. Since law enforcement officers have been cracking down harder on offenders during the past several years, the continual increase is discouraging to police and residents who want to stay safe.
Is Los Angeles Really That Bad For Accidents?
Even in years past, the Los Angeles metro area was notorious for deaths after vehicle accidents. The number of deaths in the metro area was 745 in 2005, and the number of injuries exceeded 86,000. Statistics continually rise in the city itself and the metro area. According to the local LA Weekly newspaper, Los Angeles ranked second in 2012 as being the most deadly city for pedestrians who were hit by vehicles. Los Angeles had a total of 99 that year. This total was only for the city of Los Angeles, which excluded the rest of the metro area.
The Los Angeles Police Department said there are about 20,000 crashes recorded by them every year. Keep in mind that those crashes are in Los Angeles alone, but the metro area includes several other cities and counties. LAPD sources also said that nearly 50 percent of the crashes recorded within city limits in 2009 were hit-and-run crashes. They said there are about 4,000 of these cases every year. To put into perspective how significant this percentage is, the average amount of hit-and-run crashes is only about 10 percent overall in the United States.
How To Make Los Angeles Roads Safer
Making the metro area safer is a task that requires constant effort from all residents. These simple tips are helpful, and every driver should make them habits:
• Call 911 for any suspected drunk drivers.
• Turn cell phones off before starting the vehicle, and leave the phone off until reaching the destination.
• When it is absolutely necessary to talk while on the road, use an approved hands-free device or pull over.
• Pay attention to the road, watch what other drivers are doing and always keep a safe distance.
• Avoid texting, eating, talking to friends or indulging in other distractions while behind the wheel.
• Always check crosswalks twice for pedestrians.
Help For Injured Pedestrians, Bicyclists And Drivers In Los Angeles
Fortunately, there is hope for people who are injured in auto accidents. When another party is at fault, the injured person is entitled to compensation for damages. These damages include property and physical damages. For example, if a person is injured in a crash caused by another motorist, the injured person may receive compensation for injuries and the damaged vehicle. If the person had personal property in the vehicle that was destroyed, it is possible to be compensated for that with a good lawyer.
Contact The Best Car Accident Attorney In Los Angeles
If you were injured by another motorist while driving, walking or riding a motorcycle or bicycle in or around the greater Los Angeles area, our attorneys can help. The most important thing you need to remember is not to work directly with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. Their only job is to convince you to accept the smallest amount of compensation. However, this may not cover all of your injuries. Many people who are injured have lifelong effects. You may need medication, physical therapy or surgery. If you were partially or fully disabled and can no longer work, you will need money to cover your future living expenses and medical expenses. Do not settle for less than what you are entitled to. Work with a reliable traffic collision attorney who only gets paid when you do. Call us today for a free and confidential consultation. Our toll free statewide accident and injury helpline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 866-966-5240.
Steven M. Sweat, Personal Injury Lawyers, APC
Los Angeles personal injury attorneys. California accident lawyers.
11500 W Olympic Blvd #488
Los Angeles, CA
90064
US
Sources:
http://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/Police-Crack-Down-on-Drivers-Using-Cell-Phones-Next-Month-198824821.html
http://grist.org/news/nearly-half-of-los-angeles-car-accidents-are-hit-and-runs/
http://grist.org/news/nearly-half-of-los-angeles-car-accidents-are-hit-and-runs/