How Coronavirus Pandemic is Affecting Minnesota Roads
During this worldwide pandemic, there has been a halt in everyday activities such as driving. This is leading many people to ask questions about how this virus is affecting the traffic on the roads. Many people assume that as more and more people are working from home, there would be less traffic and overall accidents. However, if you have been on the roads recently, there is a slightly different reality we are facing.
The volume of traffic on the roads in Minnesota has gone down significantly during the pandemic. This is largely due to the governor’s stay-at-home orders leading more and more people to work from home. According to the Minnesota Department of Transportation, traffic levels during the Coronavirus pandemic have been over 30% lower almost every day since the stay-at-home order has been in effect.
While overall traffic is down during the COVID-19 outbreak, there has been a significant increase in speeding and reckless driving. Because less cars are on the road, people are using it as an excuse to drive faster. Many assuming that they are less likely to get in a car accident or get caught because of the decrease in cars.
The Department of Public Safety said that they have received a large increase in reports of aggressive driving and speeding, some more than 100 mph. They also state an increase in fatal crashes that includes 31 fatal crashes since March 16, resulting in 35 deaths. In Minnesota, car crashes and related deaths are much higher than they have been during this time in previous years.
These statistics are scary to think about, especially during this time. As our healthcare systems are overwhelmed with handling COVID-19, we need to make it our job to keep people out of the hospitals. The increase in speeding and reckless driving is leading to more accident injuries which require hospitalization and medical attention. This is taking doctors and medical staff away from the pandemic.
The message we should take from these statistics is simple, slow down. A lot of people think that if there are fewer cars on the road that it is more acceptable to speed because it is less likely for there to be an accident. This is wrong. This just leads to more severe crashes leading to more serious injuries and deaths. People might also think that because there is less traffic, there is less of a chance for them to get caught speeding but that is not true either. There are still troopers out there ready to give tickets for excessive speeding and reckless driving.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to speeding or reckless driving, please contact us today to talk with someone from our legal team about your legal options and receive a free case evaluation. At McEwen & Kestner, we are dedicated to making sure our clients receive full compensation for their injuries and suffering.
