Car accidents are a harsh reality, and Tulsa, Oklahoma, is no exception. If you’re navigating the aftermath of a collision, understanding the common causes and accident trends can be crucial, especially when considering seeking legal assistance from a Tulsa Accident Lawyer. This article delves into key accident statistics in Tulsa, providing valuable insights into the factors contributing to these incidents.
Distracted Driving: A Major Cause of Tulsa Accidents
Distracted driving is a significant problem across the nation, and Tulsa is not immune. Alarmingly, approximately 12% of car accidents in Oklahoma are attributed to distracted driving. Within this concerning statistic, drivers aged 20-24 are unfortunately the most prone to accidents caused by inattention. Furthermore, data reveals that men across all age groups are more likely than women to engage in distracted driving.
The sources of distraction are varied, but those originating from inside the vehicle account for a staggering 45% of distracted driving incidents. External distractions contribute to 33%, while cell phones and other electronic devices are responsible for 17% and 4% respectively. This breakdown highlights the pervasive nature of in-car distractions and their impact on road safety in Tulsa.
Speeding: A Critical Factor in Tulsa Car Crashes
While Tulsa is Oklahoma’s second-largest city, it holds the unfortunate top rank for speed-related car accidents. In 2020, nearly 24% of all speed-related crashes in Oklahoma occurred in Tulsa, significantly higher than Oklahoma City’s approximately 19%. This indicates a pronounced issue with speeding on Tulsa roads.
Speed is often compounded by other adverse conditions. Unsafe speed on wet roads or driving too fast for prevailing traffic conditions were the primary causes in almost 48% of speed-related accidents. This emphasizes the importance of adjusting driving behavior to match road and weather conditions to prevent accidents, and underscores why speed is a frequent factor in cases handled by a Tulsa accident lawyer.
Alcohol’s Devastating Role in Tulsa Motor Vehicle Accidents
Alcohol consumption continues to be a dangerous factor in motor vehicle accidents. In 2020, Oklahoma reported nearly 3,000 alcohol-related motor vehicle accidents. While these accidents constitute less than 5% of all crashes statewide, they tragically account for almost 27% of all traffic fatalities. Tulsa itself recorded 16 fatal car accidents involving drunk driving, highlighting the severe consequences of impaired driving in the city. These types of accidents often necessitate the expertise of a Tulsa accident lawyer to navigate the legal complexities involved.
Teen Drivers and Accident Risks in Tulsa
In line with an overall decrease in Oklahoma traffic accidents in 2020, accidents involving teen drivers also saw a significant reduction compared to 2019. Teen drivers (ages 16-19) were involved in approximately 11% of motor vehicle crashes in 2020 and nearly 7% of the state’s fatal accidents.
Interestingly, teen male drivers are more than twice as likely to be involved in fatal car accidents compared to their female counterparts. However, teen female drivers are statistically more likely to be involved in injury accidents. The top five contributing factors to teen auto accidents are: failure to yield, unsafe speed, inattention/distraction, following too closely, and improper acts or movements such as failure to signal or improper lane use. Understanding these factors is crucial for parents and educators in Tulsa aiming to improve teen driver safety and reduce the need for a Tulsa accident lawyer due to teen-related incidents.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident in Tulsa, understanding these accident trends is only the first step. Navigating the legal and insurance aspects can be challenging. Consulting with an experienced Tulsa accident lawyer can provide you with the guidance and support you need to protect your rights and understand your options.
