Auto accidents happen without warning in Louisiana and people are frequently injured and lose their lives. This is an ongoing problem that comes about due to many factors. With good reason, many believe that driver behavior is a common cause of collisions. Whether it is drunk driving, speeding, recklessness, drowsy driving or distracted driving, everyone on the road should be wary. As recent research shows, there are other concerns that can place people at risk. It is important to be aware of them to try and stay safe and to know what to do after being injured or losing a loved one.
Study says Louisiana is seventh in the nation for dangerous roads
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) collected information and formulated rankings as to which state had the most dangerous roads. Louisiana came in seventh. This stems from a combination of driver behavior and the actual road itself. Road quality is believed to play a prominent role in accidents.
For road quality, Louisiana was next-to-last in the FHWA rankings. More than 14% have “rutting.” This is when the road becomes deformed due to use and wear. A road that is not maintained and repaired with proper frequency makes it harder for vehicles to gain traction. This can negatively impact braking, cause vehicles to skid and drivers to lose control.
In Louisiana, there are nearly 18 road fatalities for every 100,000 miles traveled by vehicle. The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) says it bases its construction, repair and maintenance schedule on public safety. It also says that the rankings are not giving the full story as it focuses on the pure numbers and not the intricate details of what might have led to the accident.
Understanding what caused an auto accident is key when moving forward
After a car and truck accident, people who are confronted with injuries, major medical bills, lost time at work and other challenges will want answers. This is even more relevant for people whose loved one was killed in a crash. Whether the injuries involved broken bones, cuts, bruises, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage and more, it is crucial to have experienced advice with learning the details of what caused the accident.
If driver misbehavior or wrongdoing was a cause, this is vital. It is also essential to know if the road itself could have been a factor. This research is a warning that people should be aware of. Discussing the case with trustworthy professionals can help with accruing evidence and taking the necessary steps to hold those responsible accountable for what occurred.