Auto accidents are still one of the most common ways in which people in Alabama are injured and lose their lives. In addition to the physical and emotional challenges they might face in the aftermath, they can also deal with long-term financial and personal ramifications. Of course, avoiding wrecks is ideal. Unfortunately, in some instances, they cannot be avoided.
It is important to understand what can cause a collision and the frequency with which they happen in the state. Researchers use statistics to assess these crashes to try and reduce their number. Recently, ConsumerAffairs analyzed the most dangerous cities for drivers in the United States and found that two of the largest cities in Alabama had the dubious distinction of being near the worst.
The numbers can be important when there is a collision because the cause is a fundamental part of exploring the available options to make a full recovery. Understanding this is key when deciding how to proceed.
Birmingham and Mobile have high rates of auto wrecks
ConsumerAffairs looked at driver behaviors and the numbers to determine which cities were the worst for drivers. It used the federal accident statistics to come to its conclusions. The primary factors included fatalities, how many road deaths were connected to drivers who were under the influence, and recklessness. Across the U.S., more than 39,000 people were killed in a crash in 2024. A positive is that the numbers finally fell below 40,000 for the first time since 2020.
Mobile rose from 75th in the nation to 12th. There were nearly six fatal accidents involving impairment for every 100,000 people living there. Overall, Mobile had just under 20 fatalities per 100,000 people. This was significantly higher than the national numbers of 12.31. Birmingham went from 17th to 15th. It had just over nine fatalities per 100,000 residents.
People using Alabama roads simply need to look to their left and right and it is likely they will see other drivers looking down, apparently at their cellphones, instead of watching the road. There are myriad ways in which people can put themselves and others at risk. Along with distraction, that includes aggressiveness, carelessness, going the wrong way on one-way streets, failure to yield, tailgating, improper passing, and drivers who are inexperienced.
The state and its policies play a role in road dangers. If there is lax enforcement, there is no reason for drivers to be vigilant about safety and following the law. If drivers speed with impunity or they are not cited for their behavior, then they will keep driving unsafely.
Be prepared to pursue justice after an auto accident
The same issues that impact the bigger cities in Alabama are also relevant in the smaller areas like Fort Payne and the nearby towns. Those who have suffered personal injury in an auto wreck will have many questions. This is a fearful and worrisome time for the injured person and their family. Wondering how they will address the future and the personal, physical and financial challenges that lay ahead can be overwhelming.
Along with the medical reports, prognosis and finances, the accident itself must be scrutinized. Since the study looked at how the two largest cities in Alabama have become more dangerous for drivers, the factors that caused the accident cannot be ignored. If the other driver was texting behind the wheel, there will be a record of that, and it can be used as part of a legal claim. Evidence of intoxication, skid marks on the road and other pieces of evidence can be crucial.
From the start, it is wise to have assistance with taking all the necessary steps to filing a claim. This is true regardless of the severity of the injuries. Contacting professionals is vital and is a fundamental aspect of a successful case.