They put their lives on the line for our freedom. Those who sacrifice everything by joining the Army, Air Force, Navy or Marines face challenges that civilians will never truly understand. Danger is something that they are acquainted with often and what the next day will bring is unknown. A recent study shows that the dangers don’t stop for returning soldiers. Researchers discovered that soldiers are at a heightened risk of a car wreck once they return home from duty.
Soldiers’ Lives Are on the Line Even When They Return Home
According to a major insurance carrier that caters to the military, USAA, military personnel experience an increase in car crashes in which they are to blame—as many as 13 percent more within the first six months of being home from duty. Researchers evaluated soldiers over a 3-year period. What they found is surprising.
The study shows that some soldiers maintained the same driving techniques that were used for survival in Baghdad and Kabul. As many soldiers became accustomed to diverting improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in the road when they were overseas, the habit has been tough to break for some. In fact, “objects in the road” was one of the most common factors associated with car accidents involving soldiers.
Below are other interesting facts uncovered by the USAA researchers:
- The more times a solider was deployed, the greater the accident rate
- Soldiers who were under the age of 22 had more car accidents than those older than 29
- The higher the rank of the soldier, the lower the accident rate
- The accident rates for returning members of the Army and Marines were higher than those who were in the Navy or Air Force
What Happens If You Are in a Car Accident?
So what happens if you are a returning soldier and are injured in a car accident in Virginia? What if it is the other way around and a returning soldier caused a crash, resulting in your injury? Do you have rights either way?
When an accident is caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be able to recover compensation. The law in Virginia is complex, so it is best to talk with a knowledgeable attorney for advice.
For a free case evaluation, contact the experienced Warrenton car accident attorneys at the law firm of Dulaney, Lauer and Thomas. You can reach us by calling one of our many locations:
- Warrenton 540-341-0007
- Culpeper 540-825-6046
- Front Royal 540-636-7100
- Charlottesville 434-985-6000
- Fredericksburg 540-371-8808
