Louisiana is the 4th worst state nationwide for driving safety. In particular, New Orleans has more auto accidents and fatalities compared to other cities. Although the coronavirus pandemic has decreased the number of drivers, the dangerous driving habits remain the same. Nothing is worth putting lives at risk, even if it seems like a simple mistake such as missing a stop sign.
While many poor driving habits put drivers and those around them at risk, these are the top five that cause the most auto accidents in Louisiana.
1. Drunk Driving
Driving drunk is a sure-fire way of putting people’s lives at risk. It impairs your ability to judge situations, especially the ability to drive correctly. Despite billboards, commercials, and other campaigns to eliminate drunk driving, far too many people still make this mistake.
In 2018, Louisiana was 9th in the nation for drunk driving deaths. Holidays and special events like the Super Bowl usually increase the number of intoxicated drivers on the road and, consequently, the death toll.
2. Other Distracted Driving
Texting while driving, putting makeup on, daydreaming or anything else that keeps a driver’s eyes off the road increases the possibility of an accident. These days, such distractions are all too common, especially for bored drivers sitting in traffic or driving to familiar places.
It may seem easier to multitask and drive these days, but it only takes a few seconds to put yourself or others in danger.
3. Speeding
Speeding is a common cause of auto accidents everywhere. With fewer drivers on the road due to government work mandates regarding the coronavirus, it’s easier to give in to the temptation to speed. Even if the flow of traffic is 15 miles per hour over the speed limit, speeding is never safe.
Tailgating while speeding is incredibly dangerous. If the car in front of you suddenly breaks, the momentum of your speeding vehicle won’t allow you to break in time. Collisions caused by tailgating usually result in serious vehicle damage and personal injury.
4. Ignoring Traffic Laws
It may seem like an innocent mistake to ignore a red light or stop sign, but this lapse in judgment can lead to injury or death. It’s never safe to assume how other drivers will respond if someone commits a traffic violation.
Just because a driver runs a red light doesn’t mean another driver who has the right of way will yield. Following all traffic laws, even late at night on deserted roads, can help keep you and other drivers safe.
5. Driving on Bad Roads
Louisiana driving may be most notorious for its poor roads, ranking number 2 in the nation. Unfortunately, due to lack of funding and a wet and humid climate, drivers remain at risk. Damaged roads, potholes, lack of safety features, and eroded pavement can wreck a car and put a driver’s safety at risk.
Roads are maintained by cities, counties, and states. If you have been injured due to poorly maintained roads, you must offer substantial proof that the government was directly responsible or negligent to determine liability. Payments for injuries suffered due to a government agency’s negligence are capped at $500,000 in Louisiana.
Let Lamothe Law Firm Help You
At Lamothe Law Firm, we understand the importance of safe driving. However, even if you drive safely, you can’t control what other drivers do.
If you find yourself in a car accident, the stress can feel unbearable. You’re not sure what to do or who to turn to. If your injury was severe, you might be uncertain if you’ll ever get your life back.
Although a car accident can change your life, you don’t have to stop living. Let us make your life easier. Our attorneys give you the peace of mind and confidence that you will get the compensation you deserve. Call our law firm for a free consultation today.
