Driving habits can vary widely among individuals, but a recent study by LendingTree sheds light on how certain car brands correlate with higher rates of driving incidents. Analyzing data from January 1 to December 31, 2024, the study examined accidents, DUIs, speeding violations, and citations per 1,000 drivers across 30 major car brands.
The following are the study’s results. If you have been injured in a crash, call Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp to schedule a free case evaluation with a Norfolk car accident lawyer.
Which Car Brands Have the Most Driving Incidents?
According to the study, Tesla drivers had the highest number of incidents, averaging 36.94 per 1,000 drivers. Ram drivers followed closely with 33.92 incidents, while Subaru drivers had 32.85 incidents. These figures indicate a notable difference compared to brands like Mercury, Pontiac, and Cadillac, which had significantly lower incident rates, averaging 18.63, 19.72, and 20.75 incidents per 1,000 drivers, respectively.
The study found that Ram drivers had the highest incident rates in 16 states, with 74.20 incidents per 1,000 drivers recorded. Tesla drivers had the highest rates in nine states, while Subaru drivers led in four states. In Virginia, Audi drivers had the highest rates, with 47.29 incidents per 1,000 drivers.
What Factors Contribute to These High Incident Rates?
Several factors could contribute to the higher incident rates among certain car brands:
- Vehicle type and performance: High-performance vehicles, such as those offered by Tesla and Ram, may attract drivers who engage in riskier driving behaviors, including speeding.
- Driver demographics: The study suggests that younger drivers, who may be more prone to aggressive driving, are more likely to drive certain brands.
- Brand popularity: The more popular a brand is, the higher the number of incidents associated with it, simply due to the larger number of drivers.
Car Accident Damages
In the aftermath of a car accident, understanding the potential damages available to an injured victim is crucial. These damages typically fall into two main categories: economic and non-economic.
Economic Damages
Medical Expenses
- Emergency room visits
- Hospital stays
- Surgeries and medical procedures
- Doctor’s visits and consultations
- Prescription medications
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Medical equipment (e.g., crutches, wheelchairs)
- Diagnostic tests (e.g., X-rays, MRIs)
Lost Wages
- Compensation for income lost due to the inability to work after the accident
- Future lost wages if the injury affects the victim’s ability to earn in the future (long-term disability)
- Bonuses or commission payments lost as a result of missed work
Future Medical Expenses
Estimated costs of ongoing or future medical treatment (e.g., long-term rehabilitation, surgeries, in-home care)
Out-of-Pocket Expenses
- Transportation costs for medical visits (e.g., taxi fare, rideshare services)
- Home modifications or caregiving costs for physical limitations
Funeral and Burial Costs (in case of wrongful death)
Funeral expenses, burial, and related costs if the victim passes away due to the accident
Non-Economic Damages
These damages compensate for intangible losses that do not have a specific dollar amount but still significantly affect the victim’s life:
Pain and Suffering
- Physical pain resulting from injuries
- Ongoing or chronic pain
- Inability to perform everyday activities due to injury-related discomfort
Emotional Distress
- Anxiety, fear, or depression caused by the accident and resulting injuries
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Mental anguish from trauma or the long-term consequences of the injury
Loss of Enjoyment of Life
- Inability to participate in hobbies or activities the victim once enjoyed (e.g., sports, travel, social gatherings)
- Reduced quality of life due to long-term physical limitations or emotional distress
Disfigurement
Permanent scars, amputations, or other lasting physical changes that affect the victim’s appearance and self-esteem.
Punitive Damages
In rare cases where the defendant’s actions are deemed extremely reckless or malicious, punitive damages may be awarded. These damages are intended to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior in the future.
How Can a Norfolk Car Accident Lawyer Help?
Navigating the legal complexities of these damages and ensuring fair compensation often requires the expertise of a car accident lawyer. Here’s how they can assist:
Case Evaluation
A lawyer will assess the specifics of the accident, including the extent of injuries and the resulting damages, to determine the potential value of the claim.
Negotiation
Lawyers are skilled in negotiating with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement that adequately covers all present and future damages. They understand the tactics insurers use to minimize payouts and can advocate effectively on behalf of their clients.
Legal Expertise
Car accident lawyers are familiar with Virginia laws governing personal injury and car accidents. They ensure that all legal procedures are followed correctly and within statutory limitations, protecting the victim’s rights throughout the legal process.
Litigation
If negotiations fail to yield a satisfactory settlement, lawyers are prepared to take the case to court. They will represent the client in litigation, presenting evidence, cross-examining witnesses, and arguing the case to maximize compensation.
Documentation
Lawyers assist in gathering and organizing evidence crucial to proving the damages claimed. This includes medical records, expert testimonies, accident reports, and witness statements.
By enlisting the services of a car accident lawyer, injured victims can focus on recovery while having peace of mind that their legal rights are protected and their pursuit of fair compensation is in capable hands. Whether through negotiation or litigation, a lawyer’s role is pivotal in ensuring that all damages incurred are properly compensated, providing the necessary financial resources for recovery and rebuilding one’s life after a traumatic car accident.
Our Norfolk car accident attorneys understand that when a person is injured in a car accident, it can often be a confusing and overwhelming time. Not only are you dealing with the pain and recovery of the injuries, but you also may be dealing with financial issues, worried about how you will pay the medical bills for your treatment, and the income you are losing from being unable to work.
If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a car accident, contact Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp to schedule a free consultation and find out what legal recourse you may have for financial compensation for the losses resulting from those injuries. Our firm is dedicated to securing the financial compensation our clients deserve, which is why our attorneys have recovered over $100 million in settlements and verdicts.
For your convenience, we have offices in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Hampton, Portsmouth, Suffolk, and Kitty Hawk, North Carolina.
