Accidents, whether small or big, have the potential to impact people’s lives in Calgary. Despite our best efforts to be careful, accidents can occur at any time and in any place. It becomes imperative to be prepared for unexpected incidents.
Accident lawyers are available to provide assistance and guidance to individuals involved in accidents. These legal experts possess in-depth knowledge of accident-related laws and are dedicated to safeguarding the rights of victims. Let us discuss the importance of being prepared for accidents in Calgary and how accident lawyers can offer substantial support during difficult times.
The Rising Numbers of Accidents in Calgary Today
Before we discuss the current accident status in Calgary today, let’s take a moment to look back in time. During the pandemic, the number of accidents on Calgary roads decreased significantly. Between January and November 2020, over 13,000 fewer crashes were reported compared to the same period in 2019.
The decrease in accidents is attributed to more people working from home, resulting in fewer vehicles on the road. In November, there was a 43% decrease in crashes compared to the previous year. Although the number of crashes has decreased, some accidents’ severity has increased. With less traffic, speeding has become a concern, leading to more severe collisions when they occur.
The pandemic resulted in fewer crashes due to reduced driving. In March and April, the distance driven by drivers decreased by 25% to 30%, leading to a decline in claim frequency. After March 13, there was a notable 50% increase in confirmed crashes happening at speeds greater than 112 km/h. This increase indicates a rise in risky driving behaviors despite the overall reduction in driving activity during that time.
Only on Wednesday, July 19 2023, a serious accident involving several vehicles, including a motorcycle, occurred in southeast Calgary. One person got seriously injured and was taken to the hospital. There aren’t many details about the incident yet, but according to an EMS spokesperson who spoke to Global News, the crash happened at 17th Avenue Southeast and Deerfoot Trail.
In response to the accident, the police closed the westbound and eastbound lanes in that area to investigate further. This information was shared in a tweet by YYC Transportation. The roads were reopened at 4:36 p.m. after the investigation was completed.
But why is this happening? Let’s see the answers in the following sections.
Common Causes of Accidents in Calgary
Car accidents can greatly affect the lives of those involved. Sadly, no matter how cautious you are while driving, the reality is that accidents can happen to anyone on the road. This list outlines Alberta’s primary causes of car accidents, helping you stay alert and avoid serious harm.
Recently, Calgary Police warned about rising collisions caused by tired drivers. By early November 2013, 2022, they had already responded to 96 accidents involving drowsy drivers in the city, which was one-third more than the previous year.
Long work hours are likely to blame. Many drivers, instead of getting enough rest, are driving while exhausted. This can lead to tragic consequences. Transport Canada estimates that 20 percent of deadly traffic collisions result from driver fatigue. Every year, about 500 Canadians lose their lives in traffic accidents caused, at least in part, by driver fatigue, as the Northwest Territories Department of Transportation reported.
Apart from this, there are also other reasons that should not be overlooked.
Driver Inexperience
Many of us have been through the phase of learning to drive, enjoying the newfound freedom it brings. However, inexperienced drivers can pose a risk to others. According to the Alberta Ministry of Transportation, young drivers had the highest involvement rate in deadly collisions and accidents with casualties in 2015.
A staggering 86.4% of total accidents that year were caused by one or more drivers committing a driving error. To protect yourself from the decisions of inexperienced drivers, maintain a safe distance from them and be prepared for any mistakes they may make on the road.
Speeding
Though it may seem obvious, speeding remains a significant danger on the roads, despite countless warnings. Shockingly, 25% of fatal collisions in Alberta in 2015 were caused by speeding drivers. When sharing the road with a speeder, staying vigilant and reacting calmly to their reckless behavior is crucial. Avoid engaging with them; if they are driving dangerously fast, pull over safely and notify the police. Paying attention to your speed is equally important to ensure the safety of yourself and others.
Distracted Driving
With the plethora of gadgets and distractions available today, it’s no surprise that distracted driving is a leading reason for car accidents in Calgary today. This occurs when drivers divert their attention from the road to focus on something else, like their mobile phone, music, food, GPS, or other distractions.
According to CAA, distracted driving is causing more accidents in Canada than impaired driving. To promote road safety, avoid common distractions by keeping your music at a reasonable volume, refraining from using your phone while driving, and avoiding multitasking with food or makeup.
Wildlife
Living close to nature in Alberta is a blessing, but it also comes with the risk of encountering wild animals on the road, a leading cause of rural accidents in the province. In 2015, 54% of rural accidents resulted from collisions with animals.
When faced with an animal on the road, it is of utmost importance to maintain composure and avoid panicking. Swerving can worsen the situation, potentially causing a loss of control over your vehicle. As difficult as it may be, prioritize your safety and your family by refraining from sudden maneuvers. Sometimes, hitting an animal may be the safest option to protect yourself.
Emergency Response
Emergency response refers to the actions and measures taken to address accidents or emergencies effectively and efficiently. Knowing how to respond during such situations is necessary because it can save lives, prevent further injuries, and minimize property damage.
Every second counts during an accident or emergency, and the actions taken immediately can greatly impact the overall situation. Proper emergency response can help control the situation, provide necessary medical attention, and ensure the safety of everyone involved. Individuals must know the basic steps to take in an accident or emergency to act quickly and responsibly.
Emergency Preparedness
Emergency preparedness is planning and organizing in advance to deal with potential accidents, disasters, or emergencies effectively. It involves identifying potential risks and hazards, developing plans, and equipping individuals and families with the necessary knowledge and resources to respond appropriately in critical situations.
Preparedness plays a primary role in significantly reducing the impact of accidents or emergencies. When individuals and families have a well-thought-out emergency plan, they can respond quickly and calmly, minimizing panic and confusion. Being prepared ensures that essential supplies like first aid kits, emergency food, and water are readily available to sustain individuals until professional help arrives.
In Calgary, like in any other area, specific emergency preparedness measures are essential due to the diverse risks and potential hazards. These measures comprise creating a family emergency plan, familiarizing oneself with evacuation routes, keeping emergency contact information readily available, and staying informed about local emergency services and resources. Through proactive preparedness, individuals and families can enhance their ability to effectively manage emergencies and safeguard their well-being.
Importance of Seeking Professional Legal Representation
Accident lawyers support accident victims and their families during difficult times. Their expertise and experience in handling personal injury cases can affect the outcome of such situations.
Accident lawyers are well-versed in the laws related to personal injury cases, and they understand the complexities involved in such matters. They can assess the unique circumstances of each case and provide informed legal advice to their clients. These lawyers can guide their clients throughout the legal process, ensuring that all necessary documents are properly filed, and deadlines are met.
Personal injury lawyers conduct thorough investigations to gather evidence and build a strong case for their clients. They may consult experts, collect witness statements, and review medical records to establish liability and damages. They also handle negotiations with insurance companies on behalf of their clients to manage fair compensation.
If negotiations cannot reach a settlement, accident lawyers are prepared to represent their clients in court. They advocate for their clients ‘ rights and present compelling arguments to secure the best possible outcome.
Hire Expert Lawyers Today
Need help after being involved in an accident in Calgary today? Let Sidhu Personal Injury Lawyers Calgary pave the way for the justice system for you. Call us now!
