Motor vehicle crashes in the state of Arizona are on the rise. In 2022, there were 36,907 collisions on highways in the state compared to 2021’s 30,894 collisions. If current trends continue, the number of collisions in 2023 is projected to be even higher. However, the cause of these increases in collisions over the past several years has fundamentally changed. In fact, they largely remain the same and can be tied not to factors inherent to the state’s roads, but to the behavior of its motorists.
Unsafe Lane Changes
The top reason for collisions on state highways remains unsafe lane changes. These occur when motorists fail to appropriately check their mirrors and their blind spots before attempting to merge into a new lane at speed. Even worse, they may occur when a driver attempts to merge across multiple lanes at the same time. They may not see another vehicle in their blind spot, and that vehicle may not have the time to stop – leading to an unfortunate collision. Additionally, accidents involving individuals on motorcycles where unsafe lane changes were involved are on the rise. It is very easy for a motorcyclist to fall within a vehicle’s blind spot, and if the motorist fails to check the blind spot, a collision will occur. In these instances, crashes often result in serious physical injury or even a fatality.
Increased Congestion
Arizona is getting busier! Since the pandemic, more people are choosing to move from high-cost-of-living states like California to more affordable ones – like Arizona. The increase in motorists on Arizona highways, unfortunately, brings with it an increase in the likelihood that any one driver may be involved in a collision. People are only human, after all, and human beings get tired, distracted, and careless. Combine that with more people competing for lane space, and crashes are a near inevitability.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving remains a chief cause of motor vehicle collisions and is an offense in Arizona. Distracted driving refers to any activity that takes the driver’s attention away from the road. While this most commonly refers to texting while driving, it can also refer to talking to others in the vehicle, eating or drinking, adjusting the stereo or navigation, or talking on the phone. Upwards of 25% of all crashes that happen on Arizona highways involve some kind of distraction. Distracted driving is entirely preventable. If caught using a phone in your vehicle that is not considered a hands-free device, you may be subject to fines or criminal penalties.
If you’ve been involved in a collision in Arizona, don’t delay! You may be entitled to monetary compensation. Contact us at Simon Law Group today for a free legal consultation.
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