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Wilmington, Delaware, is near the Christina and Delaware Rivers confluence near Philadelphia. Meanwhile, Wilmington, North Carolina, sits between the Cape Fear River and the Atlantic Ocean. Despite their geographical differences, both cities experience frequent car accidents due to similar driving risks. Understanding the causes of these crashes and the potential injuries might assist drivers in taking precautions on the road.

Distracted Driving

Wilmington car accident attorneys at Shipman & Wright know distractions while driving are a primary cause of crashes. Texting, phone use, GPS adjustments, and eating can slow reaction time, increasing accident risks in Wilmington’s high-traffic areas. In the second you take your eyes off the road, you could miss a signal turning red.

Victims often suffer from whiplash, concussions, and broken bones, while severe head trauma may cause lasting cognitive impairment. If you’ve been hurt by a distracted motorist, legal experts can help you collect the compensation you deserve.

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Exceeding speed limits or weaving through traffic endangers everyone on the road. Speeding shortens a motorist’s response time and increases the impact energy during an accident. Wilmington, NC, and Wilmington, DE, have busy roads where drivers sometimes ignore posted speed limits, leading to devastating accidents. High-speed collisions can cause spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), internal bleeding, and multiple fractures.

Driving Under the Influence 

Alcohol and drug impairment severely affect a driver’s ability to judge distances, react to obstacles, and maintain control of the vehicle. DUI accidents are prevalent during weekends and holidays when people often gather with friends and family.

The consumption of alcohol is higher during these periods, often resulting in catastrophic consequences. Victims may sustain life-threatening conditions such as traumatic brain injuries, paralysis, or severe burns. Even minor accidents can lead to painful lacerations and soft tissue injuries. Many Americans have lost their lives due to DUI incidents.

Poor Road and Weather Conditions

Driving can be perilous on rainy, foggy, and snowy roads. In Wilmington, NC, hurricanes and heavy storms contribute to hazardous road conditions, while Wilmington, DE, often faces winter-related challenges. Vehicles can lose traction due to ice on the road or heavy rain, leading to deadly accidents. Poorly maintained roads, such as those with potholes or inadequate signage, also increase the risk of accidents.

Common injuries from weather-related crashes include whiplash, back injuries, and broken ribs due to sudden braking or impact. Hydroplaning and black ice accidents often result in multi-car pileups, leading to more severe injuries.

Failing to obey traffic signals and signs

Many intersection accidents happen because drivers ignore warning signs, disregard red lights, or fail to yield. Many crashes occur because drivers misjudge the timing of oncoming traffic or engage in aggressive driving behaviors. Left-turn errors are also common, with crashes happening when drivers fail to yield.

Victims may suffer from spinal cord damage, chest injuries from airbags, or facial fractures. Side-impact collisions, commonly occurring at intersections, can be hazardous for passengers.

How Drivers Can Stay Safe

Given how dangerous and expensive car accidents are, it is wise to take the necessary precautions to avoid being in one. Here are a few ways that drivers can stay safe on the road:

• Before heading out, check your tires, brakes, and lights. This can prevent any accidents due to mechanical malfunctions.
• Pay attention to the weather forecast. If there’s a storm coming, don’t head out. Wait till it blows over. That reduces the chances of being caught in a downpour. 
• Follow the rules. Stop at red lights and at intersections, give way when you’re supposed to, and drive under the speed limit. Doing so reduces the chances of crashing.
• Don’t drive drunk. Assign a designated driver when heading out with friends, or call a cab. It is illegal to drive under the influence, and you could kill someone.
• Don’t use your phone while you’re driving. If you have to take a call, stop where it’s safe to before doing so. That way, you won’t be distracted when you’re driving.

Conclusion

Negligence, distractions, excessive speeding, irresponsible driving, and bad road conditions frequently cause car accidents. These occurrences can result in serious injuries, including fractures, spine injury, brain trauma, and internal bleeding. Understanding these hazards emphasizes the significance of safe driving and legal accountability. Victims may be able to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and suffering caused by the injury. Legal action can hold culpable parties accountable. If you have been hurt due to another driver’s negligence, you may need to consult a lawyer to defend your rights.