- Vehicular accidents in the US have continued to rise annually since 2015
- Distracted driving, impaired driving, and poor weather conditions are the leading causes of the increase in accidents
- Technology is playing an essential role in reducing the number of vehicular accidents in the US
- Advanced Driver Assistance Systems and Intelligent Transportation Systems are technological advancements helping prevent accidents
Driving is an integral part of daily life for many individuals in the United States, whether running errands or commuting to work or school. However, despite technological advancements and vehicle safety measures, the number of vehicular accidents on American roads and highways continues to increase.
Vehicular Accidents in the U.S.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), traffic fatalities have risen yearly since 2015. This trend should be a cause of concern for everyone, prompting a need for individuals to take the necessary measures to ensure their safety while on the road. In this blog post, we discuss the reasons behind the increasing number of vehicular accidents in the United States and share tips on how to stay safe.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is the leading cause of vehicular accidents in the United States. The use of cell phones and other technological devices is the primary source of distraction while driving, causing drivers to take their eyes off the road and lose focus even for a few seconds, leading to an accident. To prevent accidents caused by distracted driving, turn off the phone or switch it to silent mode before driving. If you must use the phone, park on the side of the road and use hands-free devices.
Impaired Driving
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is another leading cause of vehicular accidents in the United States. Impaired driving affects an individual’s judgment and leads to slowing reflexes, which can cause accidents on the road. To prevent accidents caused by impaired driving, do not drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Always have a designated driver or use other forms of transportation.
Speeding
Another primary reason for the increasing number of vehicular accidents in the United States is speeding. Exceeding the speed limit is dangerous and can lead to accidents that can be fatal. Always observe the speed limit signs and drive safely, especially in school zones, residential areas, and anywhere pedestrians are present.
Drowsy Driving
Driving while tired or sleepy can impair judgment, slow reaction time, and cause accidents on the road. To prevent accidents caused by drowsy driving, ensure you get sufficient sleep before driving, make frequent stops during long trips, and rotate with another driver if driving long distances.
Poor Weather Conditions
Poor weather conditions such as rain, fog, and snow can cause accidents if drivers do not adjust their driving behaviors to suit the conditions. To prevent accidents caused by poor weather conditions, constantly adjust your speed to suit the weather conditions, keep a safe distance from other vehicles, and ensure your vehicle is in good condition.
How Tech is Helping Reduce These Accidents
Technology is also playing a role in reducing the number of vehicular accidents in the United States. Here’s how that’s happening:
Radar Guns
Speeding can be a significant cause of accidents. Because of this, law enforcement agencies are now using the latest laser radar guns to detect speeding vehicles and issue fines. These devices can quickly scan any car at a distance and accurately determine its traveling speed.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, or ADAS, help drivers avoid collisions. ADAS is usually built into newer cars with features like collision warning systems, lane departure warnings, and automatic emergency braking.
One of the most vital features of ADAS is its ability to detect various objects to alert the driver about upcoming hazards on the road. For example, forward collision warning systems help drivers avoid rear-end collisions, making roads safer and saving lives.
In-vehicle Cameras
Cameras installed within vehicles provide valuable visual data that can help in several instances. For example, some cameras offer a 360-degree view of the vehicle’s surroundings, which helps help drivers park and avoid collisions when reversing.
In an accident, dashcam footage can be used as admissible evidence for insurance claims or in court. Commercial trucks utilize dashcam footage to monitor driver behavior while driving, reducing the risks of accidents due to distracted driving, drunk driving, or other unsafe behaviors.
Intelligent Transportation Systems
The Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) is a group of technologies integrating information systems, communication networks, and advanced vehicle technologies to improve road safety. ITS technologies include things like GPS, sensors, and vehicle-to-vehicle communication systems. The technology provides real-time information to drivers about traffic conditions, construction sites, accidents, and other road hazards. This helps drivers avoid accidents and reduce traffic congestion, reducing road fatalities and injuries.
Vehicular accidents are a significant concern in the United States. Implementing the latest technologies can reduce the number of accidents. Moreover, following safe driving habits such as can prevent vehicular accidents. All of these can help make roads safer and save lives.