Preventing Car Accidents in Baltimore

Over the past years, Maryland car crash data reveals a concerning trend. Maryland has hundreds of fatal car crashes every year, averaging around 517 lives lost annually across the state. In addition to fatalities, injury crashes have also been prevalent, with nearly 30,000 reported each year on average.

These accidents result in a spectrum of injuries, ranging from minor to severe, impacting individuals’ well-being and livelihoods. This grim reality emphasizes the urgent need for proactive measures to enhance road safety and save lives.

By acknowledging and acting upon these statistics, communities in Baltimore County can work collaboratively to implement effective prevention strategies. This includes promoting safer driving habits, raising awareness about impaired and aggressive driving dangers, enhancing law enforcement efforts, and investing in infrastructure improvements.

In this article by Baltimore auto accident attorney John Leppler’s law firm, we take a deeper look into car accidents in Baltimore and the steps necessary to prevent them.

How Many Accidents in Baltimore Are Really “Accidents”?

When examining the root causes of auto accidents, it becomes clear that the term “accident” may not always accurately depict these incidents. A significant percentage of car crashes are preventable and often result from human error. According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 94% to 96% of all motor vehicle accidents are attributed to some form of human error. This statistic underscores the notion that many accidents are not random occurrences but the consequence of avoidable actions or negligence.

The most common causes of auto accidents align closely with driver negligence or carelessness. Speeding, for example, contributes to over 9,000 fatalities annually, highlighting the dangers associated with exceeding speed limits and the reduced reaction time it entails.

Aggressive and reckless driving behaviors further exacerbate the risk of accidents, including tailgating, illegal passing, and disregarding traffic signals.

Distracted driving has become a prevalent issue, especially with the widespread use of cell phones. Texting while driving, in particular, poses a significant threat as it diverts drivers’ attention visually, manually, and cognitively, leading to critical lapses in awareness on the road.

Similarly, drunk driving remains a persistent concern, responsible for a substantial portion of motor vehicle deaths and significant economic costs to society.

Furthermore, drowsy driving presents a severe hazard, impairing drivers’ reaction times and cognitive functions.

Even if drivers stay awake, fatigue can significantly diminish their ability to respond effectively to changing road conditions. These factors collectively highlight the preventable nature of many auto accidents and underscore the importance of promoting safe driving practices and accountability among motorists.

Sometimes, liability for auto accidents may extend beyond the drivers directly involved. Third parties, such as vehicle passengers, vehicle owners, employers, establishments serving alcohol, mechanics, and manufacturers, could also bear responsibility for accidents under certain circumstances.

Identifying all contributing factors and holding responsible parties accountable requires thorough investigation and legal expertise to navigate complex liability issues effectively.

By acknowledging the preventable nature of many auto accidents and understanding the diverse factors, individuals and communities can work toward implementing proactive measures to enhance road safety and reduce the incidence of these avoidable tragedies.

Common Causes of Accidents in Baltimore and How They Can Be Prevented

Addressing Speeding

Aggressive driving behaviors, such as excessive speeding, sudden lane changes, and disregarding traffic signals, heighten the risk of collisions and resulting injuries. These behaviors endanger the driver and everyone else on the road.

Encouraging drivers to strictly adhere to posted speed limits, particularly in congested areas or during adverse weather conditions, is crucial. By doing so, drivers can significantly decrease the likelihood of accidents caused by speeding.

Combating Distracted Driving

Educating drivers about the dangers of distracted driving, especially texting while driving, is crucial in reducing accidents, injuries, and fatalities caused by distracted driving in Baltimore. Enforcing laws against distracted driving and promoting distraction-free driving habits through educational campaigns can significantly contribute to creating safer roads in the city.

Rear-end Collisions

Rear-end collisions are a prevalent type of accident on Baltimore’s roads. Many of these collisions can be avoided with cautious driving practices. Keeping a safe distance from the vehicle before you is crucial, especially in adverse weather conditions.

This distance allows you ample time to react and brake safely, reducing the risk of rear-ending the vehicle ahead. Additionally, avoiding sudden braking situations whenever possible can prevent rear-end collisions caused by insufficient stopping time.

It’s also essential to stay focused and avoid distractions while driving. Distracted driving, whether due to using a phone, eating, or being drowsy, significantly increases the chances of rear-end collisions. Similarly, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs reaction times and judgment, making accidents more likely. Promoting attentive and sober driving practices can minimize rear-end collisions in Baltimore.

Single-Vehicle Accidents

Single-vehicle accidents encompass a range of incidents, including collisions with road barriers, animals, or debris, rollovers, and off-road accidents. While these accidents may seem uncontrollable, drivers can take steps to mitigate their occurrence. Adapting driving behavior according to weather conditions is crucial.

For example, reducing speed on rainy, snowy, or icy days can prevent loss of control and potential accidents.

Maintaining attention on the road is paramount, even when no other vehicles are present. Avoiding distractions such as texting or eating while driving reduces the likelihood of single-vehicle accidents. Speeding is also a significant factor in single-vehicle crashes, highlighting the importance of adhering to speed limits and driving safely for the conditions.

Parked Car Damage

Another common cause of accidents in Baltimore involves parked cars. This type of accident often occurs in parking lots or on streets where parked cars are vulnerable to being hit by passing vehicles.

Drivers can adopt several proactive measures to prevent parked car collisions. Parking in less congested areas of parking lots reduces the risk of your car being hit by another vehicle.

Choosing well-lit spots and avoiding areas near busy intersections or driveways can help protect your parked vehicle when parking on the street. Additionally, maximizing parking space by centering your car in place and adjusting its position away from parking lines can prevent collisions caused by adjacent vehicles pulling in or out.

Reducing Car Crashes in Baltimore

Baltimore’s Department of Transportation (DOT) is committed to the “Toward Zero” philosophy, aiming to eliminate roadway injuries and fatalities. By implementing strategies and designing solutions focused on roadway safety, DOT envisions a transportation system where everyone can travel safely, regardless of their mode of transport, neighborhood, age, or ability.

Strategic Highway Safety Plan

The Strategic Highway Safety Plan (SHSP) outlines Baltimore City’s approach to achieving zero roadway deaths and serious injuries by 2030. This plan emphasizes right-sizing driving space, traffic signal retiming, reduced speeding, improvements to high-crash intersections, and separating non-motorists from motorists. By prioritizing locations with high crash severity and transportation equity needs, DOT aims to transform Baltimore’s transportation system for enhanced safety.

Toward Zero Quickbuild Program

DOT has initiated the “Quickbuild” program to swiftly address traffic safety concerns at high-crash locations across the city. Using temporary materials like flex posts, striping, crosswalks, and pre-fabricated structures, DOT can implement urgent safety interventions without lengthy design and construction processes. These interventions focus on slowing speeds, enhancing sightlines, improving pedestrian visibility, and creating physical protection for vulnerable roadway users.

For example, DOT’s Quickbuild projects may involve reducing lanes on oversized roads, slowing down turning vehicles at intersections, creating bump-outs or medians for shorter pedestrian crossings, and adding buffer space between cars and sidewalks/bike lanes. These designs prioritize safety by reducing points of conflict between different road users.

Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program

Starting in 2022, DOT has allocated special funding for expedited traffic calming measures in high-crash neighborhoods. These measures, implemented on local roads, include speed humps, crosswalks, all-way stop signs, chicanes, and more. Neighborhoods are selected based on historical crash data and demographic equity indicators, ensuring targeted interventions where they are most needed.

The program involves a design process with three meetings for each neighborhood. Residents can discuss traffic safety issues, provide feedback on initial design proposals, and collaborate with DOT on finalizing traffic calming designs. Selected neighborhoods for the program’s first year include Oliver, Broadway East, East Baltimore Midway, Druid Heights, Upton, and Sandtown-Winchester, with implementations scheduled for Spring 2023.

By combining proactive strategies like the SHSP, Quickbuild interventions, and neighborhood-specific traffic calming, DOT aims to significantly reduce car crashes and create safer roadways throughout Baltimore.

How Baltimore Car Accident Lawyer John Leppler Can Help

If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Baltimore, seeking legal assistance from a seasoned professional like John Leppler at Leppler Injury Law can make a significant difference in your case. Here’s how an experienced car accident lawyer can help you navigate the aftermath of a crash:

Thorough Investigation of Your Crash

One of John Leppler’s first steps is to conduct a meticulous investigation of the accident. This involves collecting evidence to establish fault and link your injuries to the crash.

Attorney John Leppler may contact witnesses, gather additional scene evidence, consult accident reconstruction experts, and help compile your medical records. They can also consult medical experts to provide a comprehensive understanding of how your injuries impact your daily life.

Dealing with the Insurance Company

Navigating communications with insurance companies can be daunting, especially when they try to undervalue or deny your claim. John Leppler is adept at handling all interactions with insurance companies on your behalf. He works tirelessly to defend your best interests, ensuring that you receive fair compensation that accurately reflects the damages you’ve suffered.

When it comes to negotiating a settlement, John Leppler ensures that your claim is accurately valued, considering all aspects of your damages and their extent. This approach helps achieve an acceptable settlement that adequately covers your losses.

Ensuring the Correct Application of Laws

Maryland’s strict contributory negligence law adds complexity to car accident cases. Under this law, even being one percent at fault can bar you from recovering compensation. John Leppler’s team understands the nuances of this law and works diligently to build a strong case that prevents unjust assignment of fault, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.

With John Leppler’s expertise and commitment to his client’s rights, you can confidently navigate the legal complexities of a car accident case, knowing that your best interests are at the forefront of the legal strategy.

Car Accident Attorney in Baltimore, Maryland

John Leppler, an esteemed personal injury attorney based in Towson, brings his expertise to help Baltimore residents overcome the challenges posed by car accidents. Specializing in this field, John offers clear and straightforward communication, ensuring that you fully comprehend your legal options and receive unwavering support throughout the legal process. With a commitment to accessibility, John is available round the clock to address any questions or concerns you may have.

Don’t allow the intricacies of the legal system to hinder you from seeking the assistance you rightfully deserve. Contact Leppler Injury Law today for professional, compassionate, and effective legal guidance.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Baltimore and need professional legal help, don’t hesitate to contact John Leppler. His commitment to delivering personalized, compassionate, and effective legal representation makes him a trusted advocate for car accident victims in the Baltimore area. Contact John Leppler today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards seeking the compensation and justice you deserve.