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Run Off Road Collision

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Serious and life-threatening injuries can occur when a vehicle runs off a roadway.

A run-off-road car accident happens when a vehicle is maneuvered, drifts, or leaves the roadway. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration defines run-off-road accidents as a single-vehicle accident in which the first harmful action or event occurs off the roadway. These accidents potentially can be a serious accident, as the vehicle tends to roll over after drifting off the road. In such cases, it often leads to total vehicle damage and serious injuries and even death.

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Common Causes of Run-Off-Road Car Accidents

The run-off-road car accidents are dangerous because of the fact that a large number of these crashes cause the vehicle to roll over.  In the early 2000s, run-off-road car accidents accounted for over 20 percent of all crashes and more than 40 percent of all deaths. According to statistics, these types of accidents have a higher fatality rate compared to all other crashes.

According to NHTSA, the most common cause of run-off-the-road accidents is excessive speed. At high speeds, a driver may fail to keep his or her vehicle under control, especially around curves. There are other multiple reasons that can lead to run-off-road car accidents:

  • Excessive speed.
  • Driver intoxication or drowsiness.
  • Loss of vehicle control because of an icy or wet roadway.
  • Swerving or evasive maneuvering.
  • Distracted driving caused by texting and driving.
  • Vehicle failure caused by a blown tire or steering failure.

Avoiding Run-Off-Road Car Accidents

  • Observe the speed limit.
  • Be aware of road hazards and use your judgment about how to best react to them.
  • Ensure that your car is in good working condition.
  • Avoid distractions such as texting and driving.
  • Do not drive when you are fatigued, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Car Accident Attorneys in St. Louis

If you or a loved one has been injured by a negligent driver, call The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. at (314) 361-4242. You should be aware of your legal rights to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage.

Updated: August 17, 2024