While New Hanover may be a wonderful place to live, it comes with a dubious distinction, ranking as one of the most dangerous places to drive. An analysis taken by AAA Carolinas reports that in 2011, New Hanover ranked second for the possibility of being involved in an auto accident and first for being injured in one. In better news, fatality crashes cross the state dropped eight percent from 2010 to 2011.
However, the report also states that rural counties are still the most dangerous places to drive in the state. These counties accounted for 5.4 percent of North Carolina’s fatal crash rates. Sobering news certainly and another indicator for drivers to remain cautious while on New Hanover roads.
Barely a day goes by that an auto accident isn’t featured on the nightly news. While it is impossible to avoid all auto accidents, in certain cases there can be extenuating circumstances that can aggravate the potential for being involved in a deadly crash. For example, drinking and driving or being under the influence of drugs could cause someone’s chances of being injured or even killed in a crash to skyrocket.
When New Hanover residents are on the road, there comes a duty of care for other drivers and pedestrians. Even a second of inattention can cause grievous harm to another. When people are injured in an auto accident due to the negligence of another, whether intentional or not, they may have the right to file a civil claim against the responsible parties. While such a claim won’t undo the harm caused by another, it could help families and victims feel as though they have been served some small measure of justice in the matter.
Source: WWAY NewsChannel 3, “New Hanover still among most dangerous counties to drive,” Aug. 9, 2012
