5 Common Causes of Car Accidents

Accidents happen all the time. The majority of these accidents result from reckless driving, driver error, poor road maintenance, and low vehicle maintenance. People who are informed of the dangers on the road can decrease the possibility of accidents, fatalities, and injuries. In this article, we will go over the top five causes of accidents. 

Failure to Follow Traffic Laws

One of the top leading causes of accidents is due to drivers failing to obey traffic laws. In recent years there has been an increase in accidents due to rushed driving. Rushed driving leads to running stop signs, running red lights, tailgating, improper lane changes, and turns. Failing to obey traffic laws contributes to numerous car accidents and injuries.

Impaired Driving

Another common cause of car accidents is driving while impaired. The California Office of Traffic Safety reported that 1,069 people died in alcohol-related accidents in 2018. In 2018, 42% of all drivers killed in motor vehicle accidents tested positive for legal and illegal drugs.

Motorists can easily prevent impaired driving by obeying some simple rules. Don’t drink alcohol or consume drugs before driving. Get plenty of rest the night before traveling and stop every few hours to rest.

Distracted Driving

It is incredibly unsafe to take your eyes off the road. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) stated that “Sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for 5 seconds. At 55 mph, that’s like driving the length of an entire football field with your eyes closed.” Plus, In some states, it is illegal to use a phone while driving. 

Other distractions such as looking at maps, grooming, eating, reading, talking, and changing the radio station all raise the risk of getting into an accident. Motorists who take their eyes and mind off the road risk everyone’s safety.

Speeding

Speeding is a common cause of car collisions. Fast driving can reduce reaction time, maneuverability and increase stopping distance, especially in poor driving conditions or heavy traffic. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the faster someone drives, the higher the risk of severe injury or death.

Vehicle Defects and Road Conditions

Although human mistakes cause most car collisions, some accidents occur due to factors outside of driver control.

  • Poor Road Conditions – Improper or inadequate maintenance of the roads by the city can lead to poor road conditions. Missing guardrails, potholes, faded markings, and damaged road signs are several hazards that can cause accidents. 
  • Manufacturer Defects – Defective tires, airbags, seatbelts, brakes, electrical systems, and steering mechanisms are common manufacturer defects that can cause dangerous car accidents. Every year, manufacturers recall vehicles due to the hazards they pose on the road. 

Schedule a Free Consultation with a Personal Injury Attorney today call (281) 475-4535 

If you or a loved one has been in an accident, make sure to contact a trusted and experienced attorney. Our network of attorneys have years of experience dealing with accidents and personal injuries. They will negotiate with insurance companies to get you the medical help you need, cover expenses of your damaged vehicle, and get you the compensation you deserve. CALL US ANYTIME (281) 475-4535 or fill out a consultation form here to start the process. 

Check out the video related to this blog!