Understanding Fatal Crashes In North Carolina
Every year, the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) publishes Crash Facts, an in-depth report of statewide crashes. Here is the number of people killed in North Carolina car crashes over the past several years, according to this report:
- 2018: 1,442
- 2019: 1,470
- 2020: 1,658
- 2021: 1,783
- 2022: 1,784
- 2023: 1,686
When you consider these deaths on a per-day basis, their frequency is sobering. In 2023, a person died in a North Carolina car crash approximately once every five hours.
Common Causes Of Car Accidents In North Carolina
The first step toward preventing fatal car accidents is understanding why they happen in the first place. These are some of the most common causes of deadly accidents:
Speeding
Many people don’t see speeding as much of an issue. However, speeding is dangerous and potentially deadly for two main reasons.
For one, it shortens reaction time, making it more difficult for a driver to react to hazards on the road. Additionally, speeding can cause more severe injuries on impact. In 2023, 23.1% of fatal crashes in North Carolina were related to speeding.
Distracted Driving
Driving while distracted has always been dangerous. However, the prevalence of smartphones has led to a massive uptick in distracted driving.
Texting and driving can be especially hazardous. The simple act of sending a text behind the wheel involves three separate types of distraction:
- Visual: looking at the phone instead of the road
- Manual: taking a hand off the wheel to type
- Cognitive: focusing on the text instead of on the road
These factors can combine to greatly enhance someone’s risk of getting in a crash in North Carolina.
Driving Under The Influence Of Alcohol Or Drugs
Fatal drunk driving accidents are both tragic and preventable. After a few drinks, many people make the mistake of thinking they are sober enough to drive, but their impaired cognition, motor skills, and reaction time can lead to devastating consequences.
Driving While Drowsy
Given the fast pace of modern life, most people know what it’s like to get behind the wheel when they’re less than well-rested. However, drowsy driving is deceptively hazardous. Even if you don’t fall asleep, fatigue can make it harder to spot potential dangers and impair your reaction time.
Bad Weather
Human error and negligence can certainly cause accidents, but some contributing factors are beyond a driver’s control. Heavy rain can hinder visibility and make it harder to stop, and snow makes it easy to lose traction.
In North Carolina, snowy roads are especially dangerous. Because the state rarely sees substantial snowfall, many residents have little to no experience driving in it. If you aren’t confident in your ability to drive in the snow, it’s best to avoid doing so if possible.
Reckless Driving
Reckless driving involves more than just speeding. People who drive recklessly may tailgate other vehicles, make unsafe lane changes, and run stop signs and red lights.
Making North Carolina Roads A Safer Place
No one can single-handedly solve the problem of fatal car accidents. However, when you follow the speed limit, avoid distractions behind the wheel, and choose not to drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you can help keep yourself and others safe on North Carolina roads.
Contact a Raleigh Wrongful Death Lawyer at Riddle & Riddle Injury Lawyers for Legal Help
If you have lost someone in a fatal car accident, our Raleigh car accident attorneys can help you pursue a wrongful death claim. Contact Riddle & Riddle Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with a Raleigh car accident attorney.
