With the onslaught of the coronavirus pandemic, around the world people have had to adjust to a new normal. This new normal includes not only shelter-in-place orders and social distancing, but closed schools and businesses as people follow the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) and government guidelines for safety.
Along with closings, lots of people are working from home, which means considerably less traffic on the roads even during normal rush hours. Interestingly enough, less traffic and empty roadways have seen an increase in speeding, as well as crashes with a greater incidence of injuries.
Quarantine Brings Out More Speeders – San Diego
The authorities at the California Highway Patrol (CHP) and the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) are reporting less traffic in and around San Diego, but it seems less traffic equates for more speeders. While most people are staying home in order to avoid possible COVID-19 infection, drivers, who have suddenly found themselves nearly alone on the freeways, are increasing their speeds. The result is more accidents with serious injuries, particularly during what would normally be peak commute times. Those times, in San Diego County, typically occur between 6:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. and again from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays and feature slow-going amid bumper to bumper traffic.
It seems that vast open freeways beckon drivers to higher speeds which means when collisions occur due to speeding or reckless driving, crashes are more severe, with nearly all requiring emergency response. CHP has responded to more speeding by proactively getting in view to slow drivers down. Plus, with fewer vehicles on the road, impaired, as well as reckless driving is easier to spot.
People are stressed and anxiety levels are high because no one knows when the pandemic will be brought under control, and life will return to normal with schools and businesses re-opening. The effects are massive, and no one is untouched, but it is important to keep driving safety in mind, and follow the rules of the road. Drivers needs to slow down, avoid stopping on shoulders unless it is an emergency, and remember to keep the proper distance between vehicles on the road, especially during inclement weather.
Contact The Barnes Firm Injury San Diego Attorneys
Of course, should you be involved in an accident, you should see that everyone gets medical attention and call the authorities so that an accident report can be filed. Also, whether or not you feel pain following the incident, you should see your doctor for a complete medical examination. Seeing a doctor, particularly if your accident was caused by a speeding driver, will give you a record of any injuries and treatment and ensure you get the coverage you need.
After getting the medical attention you need, you will want to hire a top tier personal injury lawyer to ensure your rights are protected. An expert personal injury lawyer, like those at The Barnes Firm will represent you, putting your needs first and seeing that you get the compensation you deserve following your accident. Contact us today!
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Coronavirus , COVID-19 , Personal Injury Attorneys , San Diego , Speeding Car Accidents