Car Accident Lawyer
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there are more than 6 million car accidents every year in the United States. That’s an average of 16,000 accidents per day! While most of these accidents are minor fender-benders, around 1.3 million people are injured, and over 37,000 people are killed annually as a result of car accidents. So what can you do to prevent yourself from becoming a statistic? Read on as a top-rated car accident lawyer explains the top 7 reasons why car accidents happen – and how you can avoid them!
Running Red Lights/Stop Signs
This is one of the most common causes of car accidents. A driver either doesn’t see a stop sign or red traffic light and drives through it or simply ignores it. The result can be deadly, as both drivers may not be expecting the other to enter the intersection at that time. To avoid this type of accident, obey all traffic signals and signs. Pay attention to the road ahead of you so that you’re aware of any upcoming stop lights or stop signs.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is an epidemic on American roads today. Texting while behind the wheel has become the number one cause of fatalities in car accidents, according to recent studies. To avoid this type of accident, turn off your phone or put it in airplane mode when you’re behind the wheel. Even if you don’t use a cell phone while driving, distractions like eating, talking to passengers, and changing the radio station can still lead to an accident.
Driving Under The Influence
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can be extremely dangerous, and it’s one of the most significant causes of car accidents. Alcohol impairs judgment, making it harder to react quickly to hazards on the road. To avoid this type of accident, always plan ahead when you’re going out drinking. Designate a sober driver if you’re unable to drive or take public transportation.
Speeding
Speeding is a common factor in many car accidents. It increases the likelihood of an accident occurring, as well as its severity. To avoid this type of accident, always obey posted speed limits. When you’re driving on roads with speed limits that are higher than the posted limit, take into account weather and traffic conditions before increasing your speed.
Following Too Closely
Following too closely – also known as tailgating – is another common cause of car accidents. If you’re following too closely behind a car, you may not have enough time to stop if the car in front of you brakes suddenly. To avoid this type of accident, always leave enough space between your car and the one ahead of you – a good rule is to keep at least two car lengths’ distance.
Driving In Poor Weather Conditions
Poor weather conditions such as fog, rain, snow, or ice can reduce visibility and increase the chances of an accident occurring. To avoid this type of accident, pay attention to changing weather conditions and be aware of the dangers they present. Always drive at a slower speed in poor weather conditions, and make sure your headlights are on so other drivers can see you.
Fatigue
When you’re feeling tired, your reaction time and judgment become impaired, making it more difficult to react quickly to hazards on the road. To avoid this type of accident, don’t drive if you’re feeling overly tired. If you find yourself feeling drowsy while on the road, pull over and take a break.
Conclusion
Car accidents are a major cause of death and injury in the United States, but they can be prevented. By following these tips and being aware of the common causes of car accidents, you can ensure that your next drive is safe and incident-free!
Thanks to Brad Lakin at Champions for the Injured for this Information.
