Passing Accidents Are a Major Risk in Rural Areas
The town of Aiken is the largest city in Aiken County, but it is still considered predominantly rural compared to other places across the state. There are numerous long, two-lane roads, their speed limits vary, and the limit is often hard to determine. As a result, it’s common for drivers to pass other vehicles by moving into the opposing lane. This puts them at risk for potentially life-threatening car accidents. It’s imperative to understand that passing accidents are a major risk in rural areas like ours.
Aiken Motorcyclist Killed Passing on a Two-Lane Road
A man in Aiken County recently died in a motorcycle accident that occurred in the evening on Pine Log Road in Warrenville. According to a July 31, 2019 news report by the Aiken Standard, the man was heading southbound on a Suzuki motorcycle in the two thousand Two-Lane. Just after 9:00 p.m., he came upon a slower vehicle in his lane. He attempted to pass on a curve in the road, which required crossing the double yellow lines, but lost control in the process.
The 42 year-old man was ejected from the motorcycle and landed in the northbound lane, where he was struck by another vehicle. He was taken to Aiken Regional Medical Center, where he died as a result of his injuries. Police are continuing to investigate the crash and are awaiting the results of toxicology reports.
The Dangers of Passing Accidents
According to research conducted by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), passing accidents are one of the most common and potentially life-threatening types of car crashes. These collisions are particularly common on rural, two-lane roads, where drivers are often forced to move into opposing lanes to pass other vehicles. Among the most common impacts in these cases include:
Single vehicle accidents, such as the motorcycle crash above
“Ran-off-the-road” accidents, which can impact the passing driver and other motorists on the road
Rear-end collisions, which can result from cutting other motorists off
Side-swipe collisions, which often impact the driver being passed
Head-on collisions, which are among the most potentially deadly impacts and involve drivers in opposing lanes.
Part of the problem with passing accidents is that drivers often do not allow enough room to make these maneuvers. Attempting a pass on curves in the road or other areas where your vision is limited also increases the risks. Be aware that anytime there are double lines on the road, passing vehicles in your lane is prohibited.
Let Us Help You Today
At the Surasky Law Firm, LLC, we defend the rights of victims and their family members in seeking compensation when passing accidents occur. To discuss your case and how we can help, call or contact our Aiken car accident attorney online and request a consultation today.
