Last month, two separate tree-related accidents in Michigan resulted in three people being sent to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries. The first accident occurred on M-40 Highway near Porter Township, Michigan when a motorcyclist and passenger were thrown from their vehicle when a large tree felt directly in front of them. The second accident occurred when a tree fell onto a motor vehicle while it was traveling in Marcellus Township. Law enforcement has already determined that neither lack of a seat belt nor alcohol/drugs were responsible for these accidents.
While it might seem difficult to believe, statistics reveal that more than half of motor vehicle deaths throughout the country involve single-vehicle accidents. One of the reasons that single vehicle accidents occur so often is that there are many ways in which they can occur. It is important for motor vehicle drivers to understand the numerous causes of these accidents as well as what can be done to avoid them.
Off Road Accidents
Off road accidents occur when a vehicle exits the road and ends up either going onto the shoulder of the road or off the road entirely. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that these accidents are the most common type of single vehicle accidents. Some of the most common causes of these accidents include distracted driving, adverse weather conditions, and speeding.
Rollover Accidents
Particularly dangerous, rollover accidents frequently involve single vehicles. For many years, car makers produced cars that were inclined to roll over if driven at a fast enough speed. As a result, regulations were passed to change those habits and decrease the risk of deadly rollover accidents.
Striking an Animal
Single vehicle accidents due to animals are common. While deer might look like small animals, they have the potential to cause serious damage to motor vehicles. A large number of single vehicle accidents occur each year in Michigan because drivers strike animals that are traveling across the road. These accidents most often occur at dawn and dusk and during the fall and early winter.
What to do After a Single Vehicle Accident
If you are involved in a single vehicle accident, there are some important steps that you should remember to follow. First, you should determine whether you have been injured in the accident. If you have been injured in any way, it is almost always a wise idea to contact medical professionals who can come to the scene to assess your condition. You should also determine your vehicle’s safety, which might include moving the car if it is in a dangerous situation. Also, if someone else was responsible for the accident, you should make certain to contact law enforcement, who can create a report of how the accident occurred.
If you or a loved one is involved in a single vehicle accident and another party is responsible, you should not hesitate to speak with an experienced Flint auto accident attorney who will remain committed to obtaining the compensation that you deserve. Contact the Michigan accident lawyers at Jay Trucks & Associates today to schedule a free case evaluation. Ph: (989) 601-2554.