There is never an ideal time or place to be involved in a motor vehicle accident. However, you may be at greater danger of getting hurt while traveling through less populated areas of Illinois. This is partially because these roads are less likely to be maintained and partially because many rural areas are 30 to 90 minutes away from the nearest medical facility.
It's Not Uncommon to See Animals in Sparsely Populated Areas
Animals tend to do a better job of surviving in areas where humans aren’t competing for resources. This means that you might encounter deer, coyotes, or other wild animals while traveling through smaller towns. In some cases, you may have little to no warning that they are about to appear in your path and cause an accident. Therefore, it’s important to constantly scan for the presence of wildlife.
Rural Areas May Have Fewer Artificial Lights
Typically, highways in large cities are adorned with lights every few yards to ensure that you can see where you’re going. However, the opposite is typically true in rural towns and cities. You could be in serious trouble if your headlights don’t work like they are supposed to, so always keep them maintained.
Authorities May Have a Harder Time Reaching a Remote Accident Scene
Even if you call the police immediately after a motor vehicle accident happens, they may not be able to respond to the scene in a timely manner. This is especially true if a main road is covered in snow, ice, or other debris, so there could be a significant delay in receiving treatment for injuries sustained in an accident. Depending on the severity of your injuries, this delay could result in permanent impairment.
If you are involved in a car crash, you might be eligible to receive compensation for your injuries. Generally speaking, you have two years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit. You may be able to receive damages through a negotiated settlement.
Don't hesitate to reach out to Shay + Associates Law Firm if you require the expertise of a skilled personal injury lawyer in Springfield or Decatur, Illinois.