Alaska is a place of its own. It differs in many ways from other states and one of the most notable differences is in the land and the way of life. Because of these differences, the factors for vehicle collisions can also differ when compared to other locations. In 2009 alone there were more than 12,890 car accidents that took place in the state, resulting in property damage, physical injuries and even fatalities.
Where did these accidents occur? The majority, 76.8 percent of them took place on urban roads. About half of all accident in the state took place at an intersection and 59.3 percent took place within the Municipality of Anchorage boundaries. Fatal accidents were more spread out with around 59 percent occurring in rural areas and 41 percent of them taking place in urban areas. Accidents that occurred on rural roads were more likely to be fatal and this may be due to a lack of dividers, higher speeds and single lanes to driver on.
When officers arrive on scene and inspect the cause of the accident, they will check up to two factors for each driver. The Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities released data for 2009 in which human circumstances was selected for about 36 percent of drivers. The second most commonly cited contributing factor in all accidents was roadway circumstances, such as missing traffic controls or debris in the road. Environmental circumstances accounted for around six percent and defective vehicles made up 1.2 percent.
Weather conditions in Alaska can be challenging and slick roads or snowstorms can increase the potential for accidents. The wildlife is another factor to consider. It is important to be on the lookout for animals in the road and 575 motor vehicle accidents in 2009 involved a moose. Our firm represents accident victims who have been injured by the negligence another person. Call us if you believe that you have a case for a firm that is dedicated to serving Alaskans.