According to the United States Coast Guard, more than 200 cars have gone into the Mississippi River over the past two decades. While this number might seem small compared to the millions of automobiles on the roads of America every day, it’s important to consider the tragedy that these events represent, as well as the potential costs that they cause. To put this number into context, so far in 2020, at least eight cars have crashed into the Mississippi River, with four fatalities and five serious injuries.
The causes of these crashes are highly varied and complex. In many cases, drivers simply failed to obey the posted speed limit or law, while in others they failed to pay attention to their surroundings. Weather was also a common factor, with high winds sometimes causing cars to veer off the roadway and into the water. However, misjudging the size and power of the river was a particularly deadly mistake when it resulted in drivers underestimating its ruthless speed and strength.
Any crash into the Mississippi River can be an incredibly traumatic experience for the victim and other involved parties. The fatality rate for those who fall into the water can be significant. There have been cases in which a driver managed to survive an initial plunge but then died from drowning. Additionally, the cost of a crash varies from victim to victim, depending on insurance coverage and the legal proceedings that may follow.
Recently, the victims, families, and friends of those involved have successfully fought to have more signs and better barriers put into place along the edges of the river. State agencies have also begun to use better map-reading and geographical software systems, which alert drivers to potential dangers in the area. Additionally, other organizations have proposed programs and improvement efforts that could greatly reduce the number of cars that crash into the river.
It is, of course, impossible to completely stop crashes into the Mississippi River from happening, so prevention is always key. Fortunately, there are a few steps that drivers can take to decrease their chances of getting in a accident. Having a GPS locator installed in one’s car can help, as can checking the weather before setting out and driving carefully in hazardous conditions. Finally, avoiding excessive speed and paying attention to roads, especially those close to the river, can help keep drivers out of harm’s way.
Academics’ Perspectives on Mississippi Car Crashes
Academics have also addressed the issue of automobiles crashing into the Mississippi River. For instance, a recent study by two professors from the University of Virginia, Erin Urban and David Salmons, examined the root causes of such accidents and how they can be prevented. The research revealed that, given the close proximity of the river to many highways, drivers often do not recognize the dangers that can be present. By implementing better signage, the study suggested, tragedies can be avoided.
Another group of scientists from Louisiana State University, led by Dr. Stephen Straub, looked at the economic impact of Mississippi River car accidents. They discovered that, although the number of vehicles that go into the water each year is comparatively small, the financial burden falls disproportionately hard on those involved. Staggering medical and legal bills, lost wages, and other expenses can add up quickly, creating tremendous financial strain.
The experts’ studies have been complemented in part by several civic organizations. One such group, the National Coalition for Action, is focused on improving awareness of the dangers of driving near or into the river. They have worked to raise public awareness and have also supported legislation that would put in place better barriers and warning signs.
Media’s Attention towards Mississippi Car Crashes
The media, too, has highlighted the stories of those affected by Mississippi River crashes. Through documentaries and news programs, for example, some of the victims’ stories have been shared, illustrating the tragedy and loss that such experiences can bring. These stories bring to life the harsh reality of crashing into the river and how it can quickly become a life-or-death situation for those involved.
At the same time, media coverage of such accidents has helped to bring attention to the need for better prevention measures. Through raising awareness of these crashes, reporters, anchors and other media professionals have been able to pressure state and local governments, as well as citizens, to take action and put in place meaningful safety reforms.
Finally, the media has also shown education to be one of the most powerful tools when it comes to preventing Mississippi River car crashes. Coverage has highlighted the need for drivers to practice caution when driving in areas near the river and understand the hazards that can be present there. Such education can go a long way in avoiding tragedies.
Car Companies’ Solutions to Mississippi Car Crashes
Car manufacturers have also been on the forefront of providing solutions to Mississippi River crashes. Several companies have developed new technologies that are designed to increase safety and awareness. Some automotive companies have integrated GPS navigation systems, warning signals, and other measures into their cars in order to increase the chances that drivers become aware of their surroundings and slow down if necessary.
Other automotive companies have implemented systems that are designed to link into local police departments and other emergency services. If an accident occurs, these systems can alert the necessary parties and help them respond more quickly, thus increasing the chances of survival for those involved.
In addition to these advances, some car companies have also created technologies that are designed to analyze the driving habits of a person. These systems can detect when a driver is going too fast, paying too little attention, or engaging in other risky behaviors, and alert them in order to change their behavior or take corrective actions.
Apart from technological measures, car companies also often offer courses or driver training to help people learn how to better prepare for and react in an accident situation. Teaching drivers to be more aware of their surroundings and better able to read the signs and signals along the roadside can help them avoid life-threatening crashes into the river.
Way Forward for Mississippi Car Crashes
Given the many ways that companies, organizations, and individuals are attempting to make roads safer, it is highly likely that future Mississippi River car crashes will be fewer than the number that have occurred over the past two decades. Still, prevention remains key, especially given that these accidents have the potential to become truly catastrophic. Therefore, it is necessary to continue to educate drivers and promote awareness of the danger of crashing into the Mississippi River.
Authorities, experts, and civic organizations must keep working diligently to put in place better signs, improved navigation technologies, and more educational courses for drivers. The development of additional technologies and greater collaboration between automakers and emergency services are also efforts that can better help those whose cars plunge into the Mississippi River. Only by working together can we ensure that future generations do not have to face the same devastating consequence of driving too close to the river.
