In New Jersey, you are highly likely to experience a motor vehicle accident on rural roads. In this article, we will discuss some of the reasons why MVA’s happen often on rural roads, and what you can do to keep yourself safe when driving through these areas.
Cars and trucks can come from any direction
On a highway, you know what’s coming up. Cars and trucks are largely going in the same direction you are. On a rural road, you may have cars coming from any side. You can therefore get into an accident easily if you don’t stay alert, especially at intersections or junctions. Keeping an eye out for other vehicles is essential to your safety when driving through rural areas.
Roads are not well lit
Cars and trucks won’t be able to see you easily on a rural road, especially at night, when it’s easier to get into an MVA. If you are driving at night, you should have your lights on as much as possible to ensure that you’re visible to other vehicles. You should also always keep your headlights on and use high beams when you see an approaching vehicle.
Roads are narrower
Rural roads tend to be narrower than highways. They can cause you to take the wrong exit or miss an intersection, which could lead you into oncoming traffic and increase your chances of getting into an MVA. When you’re driving through rural areas, you should pay close attention to road signs so that you don’t get lost or take the wrong exit.
The roads tend to be more poorly maintained than urban roads
Rural roads are not kept in the same condition as highways. It is possible for you to hit the gravel on your way or encounter other obstacles while you’re driving through these areas. To avoid finding yourself in an MVA in a rural area, you should be more careful and reduce your speed accordingly.
These are just some of the reasons you may have more car accidents on rural roads. If you want to stay safe when you’re driving through these areas, you should pay close attention and take the necessary precautions.