The summer is a common time for people to plan vacations. They travel while their children are off from school for the summer and while the weather is warm. Whether people intend to drive to a nearby amusement park with their families or visit a different city than where they live to attend a concert or other cultural events, their travels might actually increase the likelihood of a car crash occurring.
Vacation travelers are a source of collision risk that people need to be aware of, especially during the summer months when more people travel. Why do visitors and vacationers increase the likelihood of a car crash?
Unfamiliarity with the area
Drivers visiting a new area may rely on global positioning system (GPS) technology to reach their destinations. Interacting with GPS devices, even those built into a vehicle, can become a major source of distraction. Additionally, drivers may have to look carefully at road signs and landmarks, which could prevent them from properly screening traffic conditions. They may also gawk at unusual buildings, murals and other landmarks. Their distraction caused by their lack of familiarity with the area and their unpredictable maneuvers can increase everyone’s risk of a wreck.
Questionable vacation choices
People on a road trip may drive when they are exhausted and should pull off to get some rest. They may feel compelled to take their rental car back to their hotel after having a few too many drinks while out for the evening. People on vacation often make questionable choices to maximize their enjoyment or control their expenses and can end up causing collisions because of those decisions.
Rental cars can increase crash risk
Operating a vehicle from a rental fleet is a convenient option for those vacationing in a different city or enjoying a road trip. They can travel without putting miles on their personal vehicle. Unfortunately, every vehicle is slightly different from the next. Minor differences in blind spots and vehicle controls can make all the difference in a high-risk traffic situation. While most rental companies are very proactive about fleet maintenance, drivers also generally lack insight into the overall condition of the vehicle and issues that may impact its performance. Generally speaking, people have little control over who shares the road with them and how close they get to vacation travelers in traffic.
That being said, even when the driver at fault for a crash is from out of state, they may still be liable for the consequences of the collision. Reviewing insurance coverage and crash circumstances with a skilled legal team can help people pursue appropriate compensation after a preventable car wreck.
