Getting stuck in traffic trying to get to or from work or school is often a stressful experience, but it is not a rare one when you have to take the Newtown Bypass (Route 332) to get there. One of our attorneys, Michael L. Saile, Jr., travels the Newtown Bypass to and from his office at Cordisco & Saile LLC. During his frequent use of the Bypass, he has wondered, but found no tangible reason why there are so many Newtown Bypass accidents.
Factors that Cause Accidents on the Newtown Bypass
The road itself is fairly level and has a few long rounded curves. The speed limit is only 55 miles per hour, not overly fast, yet every week Mr. Saile sees several fender benders along the side of the highway.
We know that during rush hour, both morning and evening, the Newtown Bypass is bumper to bumper with vehicles backed up for a long distance. Certainly these commuters, as all commuters, are in their daily rush. But is this the only reason for these accidents or are there other reasons?
Reckless Driving
Many of the same issues that cause accidents all over the Philadelphia area also contribute to crashes on the Newtown Bypass. These include speeding, distracted driving, and general recklessness.
The ever-present traffic on Route 332 leads to driver frustration and even road rage, which, in turn, leads to aggressive driving and accidents.
The Newtown Bypass is not exempt from drunk driving accidents, either. The nightlife in Newtown, Yardley, and Morrisville too often leads to intoxicated drivers taking the Newtown Bypass, especially late at night.
Red Light Runners
The traffic lights on Route 332 also play a role, especially in conjunction with the tendency of motorists to speed on the bypass. Drivers often do not have time to slow down as a red light changes, or believe they can make the light. Running stop signs along the route is also common. Ignoring these traffic signals causes a number of serious side impact accidents every year.
Rush Hour Congestion
Of course, no discussion of the Newtown Bypass would be complete without mentioning the rush hour congestion. There are many businesses, schools, and office parks located along or just off of the Newtown Bypass, which means that it is full of commuters trying to get on and off the route.
In addition, it is a very common route for access to I-95 if you are traveling south to Philadelphia or north to the Mercer County, NJ area. Traffic is often intense, leading to stress, frustration, and poor driving decisions on the part of many motorists.
What should I do if I am involved in an accident?
Do you know what to do if an accident does occur? Knowing how to handle this type of situation can help you remain calm and ensure you do what is necessary to best protect your legal rights.
What do you do if you witness an accident on the Newtown Bypass?
- Stop your vehicle and note your exact location
- Call 911
- Be aware of your personal safety
- Check to see if anyone suffered injuries (do not touch any accident victims unless remaining where they are would jeopardize their safety, e.g., if you believe the car may catch fire)
- Stay until police get your statement
What do you do if you are in an accident on the Newtown Bypass?
- If possible, note your exact location and call 911
- If you suffer injuries, do not move from the vehicle and accept help from paramedics
- If able, talk to the responding police officer and/or other driver and collect all of the other driver’s contact and insurance information
- If able, take photos of the accident scene, the damage to your vehicle, and your injuries
Cordisco & Saile LLC Can Help
The injury attorneys at Cordisco & Saile LLC believe that if you suffer injuries due to another driver’s careless actions, you deserve to recover — both physically and financially — so that you can quickly return to your normal lifestyle. We are not afraid to fight large insurance companies on your behalf to ensure you receive full and fair compensation for your injuries.
Call us today at 215-642-2335 to learn more.
