A Maine Car Accident Lawyer Explains Why
Everyone seems to be in a hurry during the holidays. Shopping, parties, errands and traveling to visit family and friends sometimes seem to take precedence over common sense, even when it comes to driving over the speed limit.
No matter how safely you drive, you are at the mercy of other motorists, especially when they are behaving recklessly behind the wheel. They could be texting. They might be drunk. They may simply not be paying attention.
But when it comes to fatal car accidents around the holidays in Maine, the odds are higher than in most states that you or a loved one might be the victim of a speeding driver.
Research shows that 43% of the state’s fatalities at Thanksgiving and Christmas are related to speeding. The percentage ties the state for eighth-worst in the nation with Illinois. Rhode Island ranked first at 55%, and Florida last at 11%.
Researchers compiled their information for each state from 2010 to 2019 – the most recent available data – using the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) Fatality Analysis Reporting System. For purposes of the study, the holiday periods were defined as the two days before and after the holiday, and the day itself.
No Good Excuses, Some Good Advice
Considering the risks associated with high-impact crashes, why do people insist on speeding? The NHTSA offers the following explanations for their aggressive behavior:
- Traffic congestion. Drivers speed to get around other vehicles by changing lanes frequently, etc.
- Running late. Drivers don't leave themselves enough time to reach their destination.
- Drivers develop a sense of detachment from other motorists, losing any sense of responsibility.
- Drivers have a disregard for people and the rules of the road. For some, this simply is the way they drive.
The NHTSA also offers some simple advice for protecting yourself from speeders: Stay out of their way because they are more likely to lose control of their vehicle and cause a crash. For example, if you are driving in the left lane and someone is eager to pass, move over. If you see a speeding driver who is endangering others, call the police.
Contact a Car Accident Attorney if You've Been Injured
If you were injured or a loved one died in a crash caused by a speeding driver in Maine, you have the right to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other losses from the crash.
The problem is insurance companies have a vested interest in reducing or rejecting payments to crash victims and do not have your best interests at heart. That's why you need someone in your corner to protect your rights and advocate for the compensation you're entitled to.
At The Law Offices of Joe Bornstein, we have seen the terrible toll that speeding takes on families in Maine. That's why we work so hard to hold negligent drivers accountable and send a strong message to others that reckless driving will not be tolerated on our roads and highways.
We’ve been serving Mainers statewide since 1974, and we use our experience to fight for the justice and financial compensation our clients deserve. Discover what we can do for you. Contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced Maine car accident lawyer. We have offices in Sanford, Biddeford, Portland, Windham, Lewiston, Augusta, and Bangor.
