Seven surprising stats about accidents and car insurance

August 11, 2020 35

Everyone wants to avoid car accidents. The costs, the chance of injury, and the time it takes to get back on the road are more than just inconveniences. They are, unfortunately, life-changing.

Sometimes, understanding the facts, statistics, and patterns related to car accidents can help prevent them. If you look at these numbers closely, you may glean useful information that will shape your driving habits. Moreover, this data will help you make informed decisions when it comes to choosing your auto insurance provider and policy. To get started, consider these seven stats:

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Time spent behind the wheel of a car

On average, Americans spend 51 minutes driving each day. Naturally, spending more time on the road increases your odds of getting into an accident. Moreover, it adds more opportunities for mistakes and distractions.

While you may not be able to change how often or how far you drive, you can change your auto insurance policy to reflect your lifestyle better. If you drive often or take a lot of long-distance trips, it makes sense that you’d pay a higher rate or choose a lower deductible. Conversely, if you drive less than 7,500 miles per year, you may qualify for a low-mileage driver discount.

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Distracted driving

Through their most recent traffic safety survey, AAA found that almost 50 percent of people polled regularly see other drivers texting or emailing while driving.

While 22 states have banned handheld cell phone usage while driving, many people continue to use their phones while behind the wheel. This sort of distracted driving often causes accidents that produce severe injuries and fatalities.

In turn, many insurance companies have started cracking down on distracted drivers. With penalties and possibly higher premiums, drivers receiving violations for distracted driving can find themselves paying for more than just a traffic ticket.

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Uninsured drivers

Nationally, nearly one in eight drivers hit the road without sufficient auto insurance coverage. Oklahoma has the highest percentage of uninsured drivers at over 25 percent.

Although authorities are cracking down on drivers without insurance, they still pose a significant risk to other drivers. Should you get into an accident with an uninsured driver, you may be unable to afford your medical bills or car repairs. To mediate this risk, you may want to consider uninsured motorist coverage, which helps pay for these unforeseen expenses.

Weather-related car accidents

Wet pavement, not snow, causes the most weather-related car accidents. Rainfall can create slippery conditions that lead a driver to lose control. Knowing this, drivers who live in temperate climates should take the time to learn how to drive in the rain safely. For example, all drivers should know what to do should their vehicle hydroplane.

Average car insurance costs

In 2019, it cost an average of $9,000 to own and operate a new vehicle, plus an average of $1,250 for auto insurance. These estimates from AAA are based on a full coverage policy for drivers under the age of 65 with over six years of driving experience and no accidents residing in a suburban or urban location.

You can avoid overspending on your insurance by reviewing your policy annually. While it may seem convenient to keep the same insurance provider for decades, it could cost you in the long run. You should regularly evaluate which coverage forms you really need and what deductibles may work better for you and your wallet.

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The most common claims

Fender benders are the most common claim for insurance companies each year. This type of accident can happen just about anywhere: a parking lot, side street, a highway during slow traffic, or even a driveway.

Although these accidents usually cause minimal damage, they can cause put a dent in your pocket. You can decrease your chances of creating a fender bender by staying alert of your surroundings, keeping proper distancing between cars, thinking ahead, and ensuring your car’s mechanics are functioning correctly.

Cars on the road

In the United States, more than 275 million vehicles operate on the road. The law of averages indicates that with that many drivers out there, you’re bound to experience an accident.

Even a small accident can be a jarring experience, and you should know what to do if you find yourself in this situation. If you experience an accident, you should follow a few basic steps. This is, as a result, to ensure everyone involved is safe and that you are meeting legal requirements.

There are some simple steps you need to do to begin your insurance claim process. Firstly, check on yourself and your passengers. (It is also a wise policy to check on the person you had an accident with. Secondly, move to a safer, nearby location. Thirdly, call law enforcement, and if applicable, an ambulance. Fourthly, exchange information with the other parties involved. Fifthly, safely document the accident and damage, taking photos if you can. Finally, notify your insurer.

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Statistics are just numbers, not drivers

Statistics are not you, your family, or your vehicle. It’s important to be knowledgeable. However, the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones is to drive carefully. Additionally, you should have the right kind of insurance coverage. The right policy is vital to protecting you while on the road.