While many Texas drivers consider the highways and busy city streets to be dangerous due to the amount of traffic and the number of trucks who use these roadways, rural roads can be more dangerous. There are many reasons that this may be the case.
Because there is often less traffic, drivers tend to have a false sense of security, potentially leading to reckless driving on rural roads. For example, drivers may be more likely to drive down the middle of the lane and speed. Further, some drivers may drink and drive when traveling on rural roads due to the lack of traffic and lack of police officers. Others may simply allow their thoughts to drift from the road, preventing them from quickly reacting to other vehicles or obstacles that may show up in the road.
Rural roads are more likely to be more dangerous in general due to the fact that many of them are two-lane roads. This means that passing another driver means crossing into the oncoming lane, leading to an increased chance of a head-on collision. Many two-lane rural roads do not have street lights, making it difficult for drivers to see further ahead. Finally, because there is less traffic, drivers are more likely to encounter wildlife, such as deer, on the roads.
When motor vehicle accidents occur on rural, less-traveled roads, the circumstances surrounding the accidents is crucial in the event those injured wish to seek compensation. For example, if there are no witnesses and authorities are not able to quickly arrive at the scene, the outcome of the crash could ultimately be based on the testimonies of those involved. A personal injury attorney may investigate the crash to obtain evidence to determine who was at fault. Additionally, the attorney may work with the insurance company to seek fair compensation for injuries and damages.
