CHARLOTTE, NC (PRWEB) October 07, 2014 -- 2013 was the worst year for car accidents in four years, according to a new crash report that came out last month. Attorney Herb Auger of Auger & Auger says these accidents aren't all fender-benders—injuries and deaths are on the rise as well.
The report is compiled annually by the Charlotte Department of Transportation (DOT) and shows there were roughly 21,000 accidents last year, according to TWC News (09.07.2014). That’s the highest level since 2009, a fact that Auger says is not coincidental.
“What we’re seeing is more people on the roads driving because the economy has improved,” he said. “More drivers means more accidents.”
But Auger says that doesn't make the crashes inevitable.
“If you look at the numbers, we’re also seeing an increase in distracted driving,” he said. “People don’t realize using a cell phone can impair you as severely as driving drunk.”
Nearly one in four of the accidents were caused by distracted driving, according to the report.
“Not all the accidents are minor,” Auger said. “We’re also seeing a high rate of fatal accidents, and many people who do survive a wreck will face a lifelong disability.”
According to a city spokesperson, the city is considering changes in lane markings, traffic signals and other measures to curb the number of accidents. But Auger says drivers can also protect themselves.
“Part of it is just to drive defensively. Be aware that there’s a problem on the roads, leave the cell phone alone, and follow safety laws,” he said. “The other part of it is knowing what to do if you are involved in an accident.”
Auger says it’s best to stay calm, pull completely off the road and make sure not to step out into traffic.
“Once everyone has the medical care they need, call a lawyer,” he said. “People don’t realize they have rights after an accident.”
About Herb Auger:
Herbert W. Auger, Esquire is a Charlotte car accident lawyer with over 20 years of experience helping victims of auto accidents receive fair compensation. A founder of Auger & Auger Law firm, Herb Auger believes in an aggressive results-oriented approach that maximizes the awards his clients receive. He can be contacted at:
Auger & Auger
717 S. Torrence Street
Suite 101
Charlotte, NC 28204
704-323-5427
http://www.augerlaw.com
Herb Auger, Auger & Auger, http://www.augerlaw.com, +1 (770) 481-1769, [email protected]
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