The stay at home orders in Missouri as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak caused a major decrease in passenger traffic on Missouri’s roadways over the past month. However, some drivers are testing the acceleration limits of their vehicles on the empty roads. The Highway Patrol is citing a three percent increase in traffic fatalities in Missouri as a result. This statistic is especially scary because passenger traffic is down statewide by more than 47 percent compared to last year. In fact, the number of traffic fatalities increased to 174 compared to 168 this time last year. This is a problem in other states as well. For example, California’s average speed is up 30% and in Minnesota, traffic deaths have more than doubled.
The Missouri highway patrol recently stepped up the number of troopers on the road to increase enforcement of excessive speeding as a result. Many tickets are being issued to drivers for speeding in excess of 100 miles per hour. The laws of physics are pretty clear, these increased speeds are greatly increasing the likelihood of serious injuries or death. The increased speeding on the highways is creating more danger to highway workers as well. Several Missouri Department of Highway Transportation trucks have been struck by speeding motorists recently since the stay at home orders have been in place.
Less traffic on the roads does not mean less danger right now. Be careful on the highways in Missouri and watch out for the road construction crews. There have been several accidents involving MODOT equipment as a result of the careless driving on the empty roads. If you are involved in a car accident seek medical treatment and do not talk to the other side’s insurance company until you first consult with an attorney.
Call Day or Night for an Experienced Car Accident Attorney
If you have any questions about car accident claims in Missouri or would like a free consultation, contact attorney Chris Benjamin at KC Road Lawyers by calling 816-425-2420 / 660-679-4161 or navigating to our contact page for a consultation at the firm’s Lee’s Summit or Butler Missouri offices.