What to Do When Collisions Happen Close to Home
Often people believe that car accidents are more likely to happen during long trips or on unfamiliar roads, but statistics show a different story. The reality is many Tennessee auto collisions occur close to where people live in the Nashville area. The misconception that accidents happen far away can lead to a false sense of security, resulting in unexpected and sometimes severe accidents.
There are paths to recover financially if you are juggling expenses after a car wreck in your own neighborhood. Feeling overwhelmed while healing from an accident injury and coping with collision-related bills is normal. Thankfully, there are professionals who can assist. Have a conversation with a Nashville personal injury lawyer to learn about next steps.
Why Close-to-Home Collisions Are Common
Several factors contribute to the high incidence of car accidents occurring close to home, including the following.
- Familiarity breeds complacency. When driving in familiar areas, a lot of people let their guard down. They may engage in risky behaviors such as speeding, not wearing seatbelts, or using mobile devices because they feel more comfortable and confident on roads they travel frequently.
- Increased traffic. Residential neighborhoods can be prone to more foot traffic, cyclists, and children playing near the streets. These factors increase the likelihood of sudden stops, distractions, and collisions.
- Short trips and frequent stops. Traveling within neighborhoods can involve frequent stops and turns, increasing the chances of accidents. These trips often include backing out of driveways, navigating through intersections, and dealing with other cars parked on the street, all of which present opportunities for collisions.
- Rush hour and school schedules. Many living areas are congested during rush hours and traffic patterns become backed up when school is starting or ending. The increased traffic and hurried drivers can lead to more accidents.
- Unpredictable obstacles. Joggers, pets, pedestrians, and other unexpected obstacles are more common in residential areas. Drivers may not be prepared to react appropriately to these sudden changes.
Experiencing a car accident close to home can be jarring, both emotionally and financially, but you need to still adhere to best practices in order to protect your rights. For example, seek medical advice to be sure injuries are documented and treated promptly, document the scene, file a police report, and notify your insurance company as soon as possible.
Legal Support Is Available
If you find yourself in a car wreck in your own neighborhood, take immediate action and consult with an experienced Nashville personal injury lawyer. Doing so can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
Legal professionals can negotiate with insurance companies, ensuring you receive fair compensation for medical bills, vehicle repairs, and lost wages. Plus they can assist with gathering evidence, which is essential as documentation is vital for substantiating your claim.
Are you recovering from a car crash that took place blocks from your house? Car accidents close to home are more common than many people realize. The injury lawyers at Calhoun Law, PLC have the skills to secure a full and fair compensation amount, wherever your collision occurred. Reach out today for a confidential consultation.
