If you get into a car accident, there is always a chance that you could suffer serious injuries or that someone could pass away in the crash. However, statistics show that this chance is not equal for every driver in every accident. Many different factors play a role, including the location where the accident takes place.
Statistically speaking, fatal accident rates are higher on rural roads than they are in urban areas. In any given year, roughly half of all fatal crashes (43% in one study) take place on urban streets, while the other half happen in rural areas. However, this is a misleading statistic. Because less than 20% of Americans live in rural areas, there is far less traffic. So, even though rural roads account for just under half of all fatal accidents, they are still much more dangerous.
Delays in medical care
One of the major reasons for this is that medical care is typically farther away. This can delay responses from emergency personnel, and it takes longer to transport a victim to the hospital. Even if their injuries are the same as someone in an urban car accident, they are more likely to pass away due to delayed medical treatment.
Higher speed limits
Additionally, the faster vehicles are traveling at the time of a crash, the greater the odds of fatal injuries. Rural accidents are simply more likely to be fatal because speed limits tend to be higher.
If you have lost a loved one in a car accident, take the time to carefully consider your options to seek compensation for lost earnings, medical bills, funeral costs and much more.