As anticipation for the upcoming solar eclipse in April grows, many are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to witness the eerie darkness that falls upon the Earth during totality. The last total solar eclipse that captivated parts of the US was back in 2017, and before that, it was in 1979. This rare celestial event is set to be visible along Mexico’s Pacific coast, extending up through Texas to Maine and out to the Atlantic coast of Newfoundland, Canada. The experience of totality is described as disorienting, giving people a sense of the Earth’s movement through space in a way that is rarely felt.
While the excitement surrounding the solar eclipse is palpable, there is a hidden danger that eclipses the thrill of the event. A recent study conducted by two Canadian physicians, Donald Redelmeier and John Staples, revealed a startling increase in fatal road accidents during the 2017 solar eclipse. The study found that fatal crashes on public roads spiked by about 30 percent during the three-day window centered on the eclipse date, compared to the same period a week before and after the event. This increase translated to one extra crash-involved person every 25 minutes and one extra crash fatality every 95 minutes. Young people were particularly at risk, with a 70 percent higher chance of being in a fatal crash during the eclipse period.
The reasons behind the surge in road fatalities during the solar eclipse may not be as mysterious as the celestial event itself. It is speculated that factors such as driving on unfamiliar routes, speeding to reach the path of totality on time, and overcrowded roads not meant to handle such heavy traffic volumes may have contributed to the increase in accidents. Additionally, the excitement and distraction of witnessing a rare event like a solar eclipse could have led to reckless driving behaviors. Intoxication and unsafe viewing practices, such as hastily parking on the roadside to catch a glimpse of the eclipse, may have also played a role in the tragic accidents that occurred during the 2017 event.
As the countdown to April’s solar eclipse begins, it is crucial for all individuals planning to witness the event to prioritize safety on the roads. The findings of the study serve as a sobering reminder of the potential risks involved in eclipse chasing. It is essential to drive cautiously, familiarize oneself with the route, and avoid reckless behaviors that could endanger oneself and others on the road. Remember to pack essential safety gear like eclipse glasses to protect your eyes during the event, but more importantly, ensure that you arrive safely to your destination. As the world pauses to witness the beauty of the solar eclipse, let us not overlook the importance of staying safe and responsible on the journey to totality.
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