Washington D.C.'s metropolitan area has been ranked dead last in Allstate's recent America's Best Drivers Report. We were ranked at the bottom of the list after researchers analyzed the number of car accidents in Washington D.C. Drivers are more likely to be involved in a car accident in our area than anywhere else in the nation.
Our Maryland car accident attorneys understand that there are outside factors, including road design and weather conditions, that contribute to the number of car accidents. But it is the skills of drivers, their abilities and their habits that contribute to a majority of the accidents we see on our roadways.
A number of our roadways have been constructed to reduce the risks of severe traffic accidents, but in turn have increased the probability of minor collisions. Take the modern roundabout for example. These intersections are circles that haven't been equipped with road lights. Yes, they help to keep traffic flowing smoothly (and slowly), but they have increased the number of minor accidents. When all is said and done, government officials defend the road designs by saying that lives and limbs are more valuable than bumpers.
One the other hand, some minor road modifications can greatly contribute to the number of serious accidents in a specific area. Take the shortening of yellow lights for example. Shorter yellow lights can lead to more red-light runners. Unfortunately, more red-light runners oftentimes can lead to more intersection accidents.
Some safe driving advocates are brainstorming on ways to help out our Washington D.C. drivers -- by aiming to give them a little boost in the skills department. Some suggest that local officials should enact a stricter licensing program to help stop poor drivers from getting a driver's license. The only problem is that officials can't figure out a way to do this that would be considered politically correct and wouldn't be on the receiving end of some serious protest.
Other advocates think that the solution lies within law enforcement. Some support the idea of more laws, more enforcement efforts and more traffic cameras. Traffic laws should help motorists to think twice before engaging in an act that has been deemed illegal -- same idea with the traffic cameras. A number of motorists protest the cameras though, calling them an extreme invasion of privacy.
Regardless of what may or may not be done to make our roadways safer, the key may be in our own hands. More aware, focused and cautious driving habits by all drivers may be the most beneficial way to help reduce the risks of fatal accidents on our roadways.
Washington D.C.'s most recent population estimate is more than 599,000. It is believed that drivers will get into a car accident every 5 years in the area. This is the second year in a row that Washington D.C. has been ranked dead last for having the worst drivers in the nation, according to the Allstate study.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident in D.C. or Maryland and have questions about your rights, contact The Kaiser Law Firm PLLC at 800-976-9215.
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