Every time we get behind the wheel, we trust that other drivers will follow the rules and drive responsibly. But the reality? Accidents happen.
In 2021 alone, car crash fatalities jumped by over 10%. That’s the highest increase in over a decade, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Behind every statistic is a real person—someone facing pain, trauma, and financial struggles. And when an accident happens, the aftermath is just as overwhelming as the crash itself.
If you have been injured in a wreck, you have options. A legal battle might not be what you want to deal with right now, but getting the right lawyer can make all the difference. The right attorney—like Marks & Harrison—can help you recover the compensation you need to move forward.
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Why Are Car Accidents Happening So Often?
There’s no single cause behind the rise in crashes, but certain factors keep coming up over and over:
Drunk or Impaired Driving—Alcohol and drugs don’t mix with driving. Slower reaction times + poor judgment = disaster.
Distractions Behind the Wheel—Texting, eating, messing with the GPS… It only takes a second for things to go wrong.
Speeding & Reckless Driving—The faster you go, the harder it is to stop when danger appears.
Aggressive Drivers & Road Rage—Cutting people off, tailgating, honking like it’s a sport… It’s dangerous.
Drowsy Driving—Driving tired is almost as bad as driving drunk. Reflexes slow, focus fades, and mistakes happen.
Ignoring traffic signals—running red lights, failing to yield—it’s a recipe for a crash.
Bad Weather & Poor Roads—Rain, snow, potholes—sometimes, the road itself works against you.
No matter the cause, one thing is clear: if someone else’s negligence caused your crash, you have the right to hold them accountable.
Why You Shouldn’t Trust Insurance Companies
After a wreck, insurance companies are quick to step in. Not to help—but to protect their bottom line. They might sound friendly, but don’t be fooled. Their job is to pay you as little as possible.
That’s where an experienced attorney steps in. They’ll help you:
✔ Gather crucial evidence—police reports, surveillance footage, medical records—all the proof you need.
✔ Figure out the real cost of your injuries—it’s not just medical bills. Lost income, rehab, pain, and suffering all count.
✔ Negotiate hard with insurers—because they’ll lowball you every time.
✔ Take legal action if necessary—if they won’t play fair, a lawsuit forces them to.
Trying to handle it alone? That’s exactly what the insurance companies want.
What to Do After a Car Accident
It’s hard to think straight after a crash. You’re in shock, maybe in pain, and the whole situation feels unreal. But if you can, take these steps:
Check for injuries & call 911—even if you feel okay, adrenaline can mask pain.
Get a police report—this can help prove fault later.
Take photos & videos—the damage, the road, traffic signs—everything matters.
Exchange info with the other drivers & witnesses—get names, numbers, and insurance details.
Be careful what you say—a simple “I’m sorry” can be twisted into admitting fault.
Talk to a lawyer.
How Washington, D.C. Is Fighting Back Against Car Accidents
Washington, D.C. isn’t sitting back while accidents pile up. The city is pushing Vision Zero, an initiative aimed at completely eliminating deadly crashes. Their strategy includes:
Redesigning high-risk intersections to prevent collisions
Stepping up enforcement against speeding and reckless driving
Running public safety campaigns to educate drivers on common risks
They’ve also made resources available for accident victims, including medical aid and legal assistance. It’s part of the city’s effort to protect drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike.
The Bottom Line: Don’t Wait to Take Action
A car accident can flip your world upside down in seconds. But just because life feels chaotic right now doesn’t mean you have to face this alone.
The reality is, insurance companies will try to cut corners on your claim. They don’t care about your recovery. That’s why having an experienced legal team on your side is so important.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a crash, don’t wait. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be. Reach out to a car accident attorney today—and take the first step toward justice.
