Most people presume that the greatest risk of being involved in a serious car accident is in the biggest cities within Mississippi because of increased traffic congestion. This belief is the reason many drivers speed in rural areas because they have a false sense of security about the likelihood of being involved in a collision because there are fewer vehicles on the road. Ironically, these intuitive feelings that many have are not supported by auto accident data. Car accidents are more common in rural areas and the resulting injuries from such accidents are also more severe.
Although only about a quarter of the U.S. population lives in rural areas, these areas account for well over half of all auto accidents in the U.S according to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). There are a number of reasons that may contribute to this counterintuitive result including the following:
- Drivers in rural areas tend to drive at higher rates of speed
- An Increased risk of alcohol impaired drivers in rural areas
- Drivers in rural areas may be less attentive or vigilant
- Rural areas may promote driver fatigue or drowsy drivers
Speeding is a substantial risk factor linked to the increased accident risk in rural areas. The lack of traffic congestion in rural areas is a double-edged sword. While there are fewer drivers and vehicles with which to contend, the average speed of traffic is greater meaning that drivers can more easily lose control of their vehicle and have less response time when confronted with a potential auto accident hazard. According to NHTSA data, speeding was a significant factor in 33% of all rural car accidents.
Drivers who operate their vehicle while under the influence of alcohol also play a major part in the high accident rates associated with urban areas. Alcohol was a factor in 13 percent more rural accidents then accidents in urban centers. Because high rates of speed and alcohol impaired driving are common causes of accident fatalities, it is hardly surprising that 57 percent of fatal car accidents occur in rural areas though only 23 percent of the U.S. population resides in rural area.
The sparse volume of traffic and extended stretches with little need to alter speed or direction on rural stretches of roadway can lead to inattention or fatigue. Because drivers must be alert because of traffic congestion and obstacles in urban centers they are more likely to remain alert and sharp for potential hazards. This is supported to some degree by data that shows night driving also is more dangerous in rural areas. If you or a loved one has been injured or you have lost a loved one in a Mississippi car accident, the experienced Mississippi car accident lawyers represent clients throughout Mississippi so call us today for a free no obligation initial case evaluation at (662) 834-2376. Our law firm has roots that reach back over 75 years helping car accident victims in Mississippi just like you.