California is known for its many attractions and landmarks. However, the Golden State is also famous – or infamous – for having some of the most dangerous roads in the United States.
Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration studied more than 10,000 fatal car accidents from 2017 to 2019 and close to 4,500 roads spanning nearly 400,000 miles throughout the state. Fatality factors analyzed included the following:
Drunk driving
Drunk driving accounted for 27 percent of motor vehicle accident fatalities, slightly more than 2,800 of the more than 10,000 accidents. Whether drivers were legally intoxicated with blood alcohol concentrations (BAC) of 0.08 percent is not the issue. The smallest amount of alcohol impacts motor vehicle operation with significant criminal consequences and more expensive insurance policies.
Speeding
Speeding factored into 28% of fatal crashes, coming close to 3,000 accidents. Driving well over speed limits can result in loss of control or an inability to make sudden stops. All of that plays a role in severe injuries and fatalities on roads throughout the state. Those caught before an accident happens are cited with tickets that usually have significant add-on charges that increase the “price” up to hundreds of dollars.
Distracted driving
Distracted driving contributed to four percent of fatal crashes or 447 deaths, ironically in a state with significantly lower distraction rates than more than 90 percent of other states. California currently has the designation of being the 47th “worst state” in the nation when it involves distracted driving.
Motor vehicle accidents can happen in a split second, regardless of where drivers are traveling. Acts of negligence present significant and potentially deadly crashes caused by negligence that may necessitate help from a personal injury attorney.
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