Metropolitan areas present a unique terrain for American drivers. It is typical to expect congestion and traffic accidents when the terrain of a city is riddled by an enormous number of drivers, complex intersections, multilane roads, and other inconveniences of city life.
These dangerous create a serious misconception for many drivers. Even though the number of collisions may be higher in urban areas, there are more deadly accidents each year on rural roads.
All too often drivers carelessly endanger themselves by overlooking the unforeseen hazards such as blind bends and animal crossings that are unique features of rural terrains.
Let's talk about how and why accidents are common on rural roads.
How Dangerous are Rural Roads?
Statistics suggest that rural roads based on the number of fatal accidents are in fact more dangerous than urban roads.
For instance, only 23 percent of the nation’s population lives in rural America which is disproportional to the over 56 percent of the nation’s total traffic fatalities that occur in rural areas.1
Even though urban drivers travel more miles each day, rural drivers die in auto accidents at a rate 2.5 percent higher per mile.2
Though some states are more likely to yield rural accidents, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that countrywide 6 out of 10 highway deaths occur on rural roads.
Why are Rural Roads More Dangerous?
When people think of rural roadways the image that comes to mind is often very picturesque. The reality is that there are a number of behavioral and environmental reasons why rural roads tend to be more dangerous.
Drivers may be unfamiliar with rural roads, but often they have a false sense of security which results in drivers possessing behavioral traits that make a huge impact on the safety of rural roads.
It is a common belief that the remoteness of country roads means a decreased presence of police officer which in turn increases the likelihood that people will speed.3
The misconception that rural roads having fewer drivers means there is less dangers often increases the number of drivers who do not wear their seat belt.4
There are also environmental causes behind why rural road accidents occur. In remote areas animals are a huge contributing factor behind many crashes.5
It is common for wild animals such as deer to dash into oncoming traffic and unsuspecting drivers often overcompensate when trying not to collide with the animal and in fact cause a collision.
Other environmental issues coinciding with rural road accidents include lack of lighting, loose debris, obstructions to visibility caused by tall fields, and winding or bending road design.6
How to Minimize the Dangers on Rural Roads?
Whether the risks on rural roads are traced back to driver behavior or environmental factors, there are steps drivers can take to stay safe.
The first step is to obey laws no matter if driving in an urban or rural setting. Speed limits, blood alcohol limits, seatbelts, and stop signs are designed to make travel safe, but they only work when all drivers adhere to the laws.
Beyond following preexisting laws, it is important to be more cautious in areas with low visibility, more animals, and higher volume of slow moving vehicles such as farm machinery.7
FAQ: Understanding Rural Road Safety
Q: Why are accidents common on rural roads? A: Accidents are common on rural roads due to factors like poor road conditions, sharp turns, animal crossings, and less traffic enforcement. These elements contribute to higher traffic fatalities compared to urban areas.
Q: What are the key factors contributing to rural road crashes? A: Key factors include distracted driving, impaired driving, lack of seat belt use, higher speed limits, and environmental hazards such as unpaved roads and animal crossings.
Q: How does the fatality rate on rural roads compare to urban areas? A: Despite fewer miles traveled, rural roads have a higher fatality rate than urban areas. Rural drivers face more potential hazards and less immediate access to emergency services.
Q: What role does seat belt use play in rural road safety? A: Seat belt use is crucial for rural road safety. Many fatalities on rural roads involve occupants not wearing seat belts. Increasing seat belt usage can save lives and reduce injuries.
Q: Why are rural roads considered more dangerous than major highways and city streets? A: Rural roads often have poorer maintenance, sharp turns, and fewer safety features compared to major highways and city streets, leading to a higher risk of accidents and fatalities.
Q: How can drivers minimize the risks on rural roads? A: Drivers can minimize risks by obeying speed limits, wearing seat belts, staying alert to potential hazards like animal crossings, and avoiding distracted or impaired driving.
Q: What environmental factors contribute to rural road accidents? A: Environmental factors include poor road conditions, lack of lighting, loose debris, and obstructions to visibility such as tall fields and winding road designs.
Q: How does the Federal Highway Administration address rural road safety? A: The Federal Highway Administration works on improving road safety through better road designs, increased signage, and promoting safe driving practices. Their initiatives aim to reduce traffic fatalities on rural roads.
Q: What should you do if you're involved in a car accident on a rural road? A: If involved in a car accident on a rural road, seek medical attention immediately, report the accident to authorities, and consult an experienced auto accident attorney to understand your legal rights and options.
Q: How does speed limit enforcement impact rural road safety? A: Enforcing speed limits on rural roads can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. Speeding is a major contributor to rural road crashes, and adhering to speed limits helps in maintaining control of the vehicle and reacting to unexpected hazards.
Q: Why is distracted driving particularly dangerous on rural roads? A: Distracted driving on rural roads is especially dangerous due to unpredictable elements like sharp turns, wildlife, and varying road conditions. Staying focused on the road is essential to avoid accidents.
Q: How does impaired driving affect traffic safety in rural areas? A: Impaired driving significantly increases the risk of fatal crashes in rural areas. Reduced police presence and fewer traffic controls make it easier for impaired drivers to go unnoticed, leading to severe accidents.
Q: What impact do animal crossings have on rural road safety? A: Animal crossings are a common cause of accidents on rural roads. Drivers often overcompensate to avoid hitting animals, leading to loss of vehicle control and collisions.
Q: What measures can the Wyoming Department and other state agencies take to improve rural road safety? A: State agencies can improve rural road safety by enhancing road maintenance, increasing signage, promoting seat belt use, enforcing speed limits, and conducting public awareness campaigns about the dangers of rural driving.
Q: Why is it important to understand the risks and maintenance of rural roads? A: Understanding the risks and maintenance needs of rural roads is crucial for ensuring driver safety. Awareness and proactive measures can prevent accidents and save lives.
Q: How can data on rural road accidents help improve traffic safety? A: Data on rural road accidents helps identify high-risk areas, common causes of accidents, and effective safety measures. This information guides policy-making and resource allocation to enhance road safety.
Q: What are some best practices for driving on rural roads? A: Best practices include driving at safe speeds, wearing seat belts, staying alert for potential hazards, avoiding distractions, and being prepared for sudden changes in road conditions or unexpected obstacles.
Q: How does the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) contribute to rural road safety? A: The NHTSA conducts research, provides funding, and implements programs focused on reducing traffic fatalities and improving road safety, particularly in rural areas.
Q: What should you do if you have been injured in a rural road accident? A: If injured in a rural road accident, seek medical attention, document the accident scene, report the incident, and contact an experienced auto accident attorney to discuss your legal options and seek fair compensation.
Q: How can consulting an auto accident attorney help after a rural road accident? A: Consulting an auto accident attorney can help you understand your legal rights, navigate the claims process, gather necessary evidence, and pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Contact an Experienced St. Louis Car Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation
If you have been injured or a loved one has been killed while driving on a rural road it is important to discuss the circumstances of your accident with an experienced auto accident attorney. The risks posed by dangerous rural roadways can be traced back to several different liable parties. Whether an accident occurs due to a negligent or distracted driver or a poorly maintained roadway, establishing liability is one of the first step towards seeking fair compensation for victims of rural roadway accidents. An experienced car accident attorney can help you to determine what claims should be filed and protect your legal rights and interests. To contact an auto accident attorney for a free consultation please feel free to call the The Bruning Law Firm trial attorneys at 314-735-8100.
LET US GET STARTED ON YOUR ST. LOUIS CAR ACCIDENT CASE TODAY
If you or someone you care about has been seriously injured in an auto accident, contact The Bruning Law Firm today. We provide the comprehensive, professional legal representation you deserve at a time when you need it most.
Call or contact our office online today to schedule a free consultation.
References:
- http://www.npr.org/2009/11/29/120716625/the-deadliest-roads-are-rural
- http://bigcitydriver.com/2012/12/dangers-of-rural-roads/
- https://www.farmcreditnd.com/education/farm-safety.shtml
