An article on Fox 4 News’ website discusses a report from the KCPD that shows a 12% increase in traffic crashes from last year. The article includes a quote from Sgt. Bill Mahoney, supervisor for crash reconstructions, attributing the increase to more traffic from the lifting of pandemic restrictions and fewer drivers paying attention to the road. Although the article does come with the good news that traffic crash fatalities are down from last year, the news is nonetheless concerning for Kansas City motorists. We have handled many car crash cases in the Kansas City area and here are a few things you can do to protect yourself from the carnage on our roads.
Always assume the other driver doesn’t see you before you cross in front of them.
In situations where the other driver must yield to you, like at a stop sign or traffic circle, I always assume that driver is not paying attention and does not see me. I do not cross in front of another driver’s path until I have made eye contact with them. This confirms they are paying attention to the road and not their phones or something else in their car. The biggest cause of crashes is inattention. Eliminate that, and you stand a much better chance of not getting hit.
If possible, drive at times when there are fewer cars on the road.
If you do get into a crash, please follow the advice I’ve given in previous blogs and elsewhere on our website. Even a few simple steps can greatly help your odds of recovering money compensation for your injuries. Things like taking pictures with your phone, calling the police and telling the responding officer you’re hurt, and getting the names of any witnesses, can drastically increase your chances of getting full and fair compensation for your injuries.
If you have questions about a car crash case, or have been the victim of a crash, please contact our firm. We have extensive experience with car crash cases in the Kansas City area and can help you with your case.