An increase in car crashes on the Blue Ridge Parkway has law enforcement officials reminding motorists to drive safely while enjoying the fall scenery. According to WLOS ABC News Channel 13, this is one of the busiest seasons for the popular scenic roadway. There have been 19 crashes on the 469-mile stretch of road, and half of those wrecks happened in the Pisgah District. There is also some concern that drivers are looking at the leaves instead of focusing on the road.
Peak Traffic Season
Autumn, and October in particular, is one of the busiest seasons for the Blue Ridge Parkway. Drivers are out enjoying the wildlife, flowers, colors and scenery. This time of year is incredibly popular for motorcyclists too. Riders are trying to get in a few good cruises before the weather turns. In September, a well-known motorcyclist was killed in a crash on the Parkway. The wreck happened near mile post 394.
Distracted Driving and High Speeds
The Blue Ridge Parkway is intended to be driven at a leisurely pace, but many of the recent wrecks are being attributed to high speed and distracted driving. In many locations, the speed limit is 35 miles per hour, and this time of year, drivers are more distracted by what’s outside of the vehicle than what’s inside. Observing the fall colors has also been a factor in some of the recent Blue Ridge Parkway Crashes. Anything that takes a driver’s attention away from the task of driving is considered a distraction. It’s not exactly a smart phone, but looking at the beautiful scenery rather than the road still puts everybody in danger.
Safety on the Blue Ridge Parkway
Motorists are reminded to use designated overlook areas to enjoy the colors of the season. Don’t take your eyes or mind off the wheel to observe the changing leaves. Watch the road, and wait for designated areas to enjoy the scenery. Always focus on the road, and enjoy the fall scenery when it is safe to pull over. If you or a loved one have been injured by a speeding or distracted driver on the Blue Ridge Parkway, contact the skilled team at Davis Law Group, P.A. for a free consultation today.