Poconos Car Accidents
Even with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, many people will be going to the Poconos as part of their winter travel plans. The testing requirements, mask mandates, and maximum occupancy caps will help keep visitors safe, but the dangers on the road will still be present.
As people from Scranton, Stroudsburg, and Wilkes-Barre, PA, travel for the holidays, the car accident lawyers at the Foley Law Firm would like to consider the auto collision dangers around the Poconos. We’ll also offer some insight on how you and your loved ones can stay safe on the road.
Recent Fatal Auto Accident on Route 940
A fatal two-car accident occurred at the end of November along Route 940. According to a report from WBRE/WYOU-TV, the head-on collision happened near Phoebe Snow Road on the afternoon of November 30th. One driver died on the scene, while the other driver was taken to the hospital.
The report noted that it was raining heavily at the time of the collision. Pocono Mountain Regional Police noted that the combination of rain and water accumulated on the roadways likely contributed to the fatal crash.
Common Causes of Auto Accidents in the Poconos
The recent tragedy in Mount Pocono highlights the role weather can play in a number of auto accidents, which is important to note during this time of year.
Some of the most common causes of auto collisions in the Poconos include:
- Poor weather such as ice, snow, and rain
- Poor road conditions/traction
- Reduced visibility
- Speeding
- Reckless driving
- Drunk driving
- Texting while driving
- Driver distraction
Will the Pandemic Affect Traffic around the Poconos?
With shuttered businesses and limited capacity at a number of establishments, there is a chance of fewer visitors and less traffic on the road. However, if the summer was any indication, there may be an influx of people traveling to the region for a remote getaway from the city.
According to a July piece in the Morning Call, Airbnb bookings in the Poconos were up almost 100 percent this summer compared to last summer. The short-term bookings through Airbnb gave people a chance to retreat to remote, rural areas, where it’s much easier to practice social distancing and remain with your household or a social pod.
It will be interesting to see what road travel to and from the Poconos will look like in the final weeks of 2020, especially as people avoid airports and air travel this holiday season.
Staying Safe While Driving in the Poconos
In order to stay safe while driving in the Poconos, it’s crucial that you abide by the speed limit, avoid driving while intoxicated, and follow all of the rules of the road. When traveling during bad weather, be sure to slow down to avoid losing control of your vehicle, and to turn on your headlights even during the daytime to account for poor visibility while on the road.
Holding Negligent Drivers Accountable
When a reckless or negligent driver causes an auto accident, it’s important that they be held accountable. Our lawyers can help you seek damages from the negligent driver to cover vehicle damage, medical bills, the loss of a loved one, and the emotional turmoil caused by the collision. We are here to help, offering compassionate legal counsel.
Speak with Our Car Accident Lawyers
If you or your loved ones have been injured in a car accident, the Foley Law Firm can help. To schedule a legal consultation, contact our injury accident lawyers online or contact our law offices by phone at (570) 342-8194.