When out on the road, the last thought you want to consider is the possibility of a car accident.
Every year, millions of car accidents occur in the U.S. The good news is many of these collisions are avoidable, but the bad news is many drivers continue to exhibit deficient driving behaviors.
From driving aggressively to driving impaired, many people misuse the privilege of operating their vehicles on roads and highways. When accidents occur, injuries or worse are the result. The fallout from following a car accident can have a long-lasting and life-changing impact.
Have you ever wondered about the leading causes of car accidents?
Here’s a look at five of them.
1. Drunk Driving
The dangers of drinking and driving are well known. But that hasn’t stopped drivers from consuming more than the allowable amount of alcohol before getting behind the wheel of their cars. When someone has too much alcohol in their system, their ability to drive safely is severely compromised. They can’t make sound decisions behind the wheel. Drunk drivers are a danger not only to themselves but also to others. It goes without saying – don’t drink and drive.
2. Aggressive Driving
Aggressive driving is another common cause of car accidents. It involves tailgating, speeding, weaving in and out of traffic, and other negative driving behaviors. When people drive aggressively, they increase their odds of experiencing accidents. Even more, aggressive drivers can morph into road ragers if another motorist does something they don’t like. In addition to risking a traffic ticket, you can get into a lot of trouble through aggressive driving.
3. Speeding
According to one source, nine in 10 motorists acknowledge that they speed. Meanwhile, 35% of them admit speeding is never okay. So, many motorists are saying one thing but doing another.
Another source notes that close to 33% — or one-third — of traffic fatalities are due to speeding. If you’ve ever seen a driver speeding on the road, you know simply observing it can be unsettling. Unfortunately, speeding can and often does cause accidents. Adhere to the posted speed limit — and dial down the speed if the weather or road conditions aren’t ideal.
4. Weather
Yet another main cause of collisions is the weather. Drivers should factor weather conditions into their driving behaviors, but many people drive too fast, tailgate, or get distracted when weather conditions make the roads more challenging. If it’s raining cats and dogs, that’s not the time to drive with a heavy foot. You need to slow down to keep the roads safe.
5. Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is yet another primary reason for car accidents. When driving, you must focus on operating your vehicle. You can’t be doing a million and one different things when driving on the road or highway. Too many vehicle collisions result from distracted driving.
If you need to speak to someone on the phone, pull over, shut off your car, and make your phone call. Texting is the number one distraction for motorists. Rather than texting while driving, put texting on the back burner until you can do so safely.
These are five of the major reasons for car accidents on the road. If injured in a car accident, one of the first things to do is contact a car accident lawyer. It can take a long time to get better after getting banged up in an accident. If you have to take time off work and get medical care, you’ll want the funds to seek medical assistance without falling into a financial hole. A lawyer can help determine if you qualify for compensation and help you get what you deserve.