Statistics show rising threats for drivers in British Columbia
On Behalf of Porter Ramsay LLP | Mar, 01, 2018 | Blog
Most drivers in British Columbia are aware of the many dangers presented on the roadways, and the majority exhibit extreme care while behind the wheel. Unfortunately, it appears that the level of danger for all motorists is on the rise. Following a significant spike in the number of road accidents in British Columbia in recent years, ICBC conducted an online survey early last year to get a better understanding of how the behaviour of drivers contributed to the 320,000 crashes in 2016.
The ICBC conducted the survey in collaboration with a market researcher and questioned over 1,100 drivers — all older than 21 years. The results of the study caused concern, and ICBC launched an online course to allow drivers to refresh their knowledge of the road rules in the province.
Drivers’ responses
ICBC says almost all the respondents graded their own driving capabilities as good or excellent; however, the majority failed to answer questions about road rules correctly. The following data from the survey caused concern:
- Respondents believe poor driver behaviour causes most accidents.
- Drivers have become more distracted, aggressive and impatient.
- 75 percent of the respondents ignore driving rules when they are in a hurry.
- Almost one-third said there is nothing wrong with bending the rules when traffic is light.
- 18 percent drive aggressively.
- Only 1 percent of the respondents avoid driving when they are emotional.
What would you do if you were in a crash?
If you are in one of the estimated 875 car accidents that reportedly happen on British Columbia roads every day, the insurer might offer you a settlement. However, would you know which factors to take into account before accepting such an offer?
Considering that your injuries most likely caused absence from work, you might have lost a considerable amount of income, and if your injuries were severe or life-altering, your earning capacity for future income might be drastically affected. Along with lost income, you are also most likely facing mounting medical bills while dealing with the pain and suffering in the aftermath of your accident.
Help is available
During this trying time, there are resources available to you who can address your questions and concerns and assist with analyzing your case to determine the value of your losses. This process involves evaluation of the severity of your injuries and the costs related to medical care — including rehabilitation. Along with your income losses, you might have required help with housekeeping and personal care tasks while you were incapacitated.
An experienced British Columbia lawyer can assist with documentation of all your economic and non-economic losses, and he or she can guide you through the often-complicated claims process with the ICBC in pursuit of the maximum amount of compensation to which you are entitled.