While Hattiesburg, Mississippi, is peaceful a lot of the time, there are occasions when the city gets busy. Traffic can be heavy as people make their way to and from work and drop the kids off at school.
Driving at any time can be hazardous, but there are some unique risks associated with driving in heavy traffic. Here are some important things to keep in mind.
Space becomes limited
To remain safe, vehicles need space to operate in. For example, the recommended following distance is three seconds. This allows vehicles to slow down or come to a stop without running into one another. In busy traffic, maintaining this following distance becomes difficult. Space becomes limited and that means should a vehicle slam on the brakes or turn suddenly, there is less room to prevent a crash.
Behavior becomes aggressive
During busy times, most people are likely to be operating on some sort of deadline. Workers might have to clock in by a certain time, children may need to be dropped off before the bell sounds, etc. Watching these deadlines slip away can make drivers angry. They may be more likely to engage in aggressive behaviors and reckless driving maneuvers. For example, a driver in a hurry may weave in and out of traffic, putting others at risk.
Increased distractions
Some people feel like all they can do in heavy traffic is switch off and try not to get stressed. The upside of this is that they do not become angry. The downside is that they may become distracted. A driver may choose to make a phone call, check emails or engage in all sorts of other distracting activities while stuck in traffic. Being distracted is always dangerous, even when traffic is not flowing freely.
If a negligent driver injured you, you may be entitled to personal injury compensation. Seeking legal guidance can help you explore your options in more detail.