Car accidents are among the most common causes of death and injuries in the United States, with over 5 million car crashes reported annually. Because car accidents can result in severe consequences—including physical, emotional, and financial harm—it is essential to understand what factors commonly lead to car crashes. Knowing this information can help you take steps to avoid car collisions, as well as call upon a car accident lawyer if an unfortunate incident does occur.
In this blog, we will look at ten common causes of car accidents:
1) Distracted Driving – Distracted driving is any activity that diverts a person’s attention away from the primary task of driving. Examples include texting or talking on the phone, adjusting music, eating and drinking, talking to passengers, looking at a map or GPS device, and attending to children.
2) Speeding – When drivers exceed the speed limit or drive too fast for conditions (such as inclement weather), they increase the likelihood of a car accident.
3) Driving Under the Influence – Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol can impair judgment, reaction time, motor skills, and coordination—all of which are essential driving abilities.
4) Fatigue – Fatigue is another common cause of car accidents due to decreased alertness and slower reflexes. Long drives often exacerbate this on highways with limited opportunities to take breaks.
5) Poor Road Conditions – Negligently maintained roadways include potholes, uneven pavement, obstructions, and slippery surfaces. In addition to car accidents caused by poor road conditions, car accident lawyers are often called to represent those who suffer injuries due to defective car parts or car fires.
6) Unsafe Lane Changes – When drivers fail to use their turn signals and check for nearby vehicles before changing lanes, it can lead to serious car crashes.
7) Aggressive Driving – Aggressive driving is when a driver intentionally disregards safety protocols to achieve a desired destination faster than they otherwise would. Examples of aggressive driving include tailgating other cars, cutting off other drivers, failing to yield the right-of-way, and making illegal turns.
8) Poor Visibility – Poor visibility can be caused by inclement weather, darkness, or objects obstructing the view of the road ahead. This increases the chances of car accidents due to decreased reaction time and reduced ability to gauge speed.
9) Unfamiliar Roads – Driving in unfamiliar locations can lead to car crashes due to a lack of knowledge about local traffic laws, poor directional sense, and limited awareness of nearby cars.
10) Mechanical Malfunction – An experienced auto accident lawyer may be called upon when car accidents are caused by mechanical malfunctions such as brake failure, tire blowout, or a defective car part.
Whether it is you or another driver that is responsible for your car accident, it is essential to seek legal advice from an auto accident attorney. An attorney can protect your rights and help you receive the compensation you deserve for any damages resulting from the car crash.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car accident, contact a car accident lawyer immediately to ensure your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation owed to you.
We understand how traumatic car accidents can be—not only for those involved in the crash but also for their families and friends. That’s why it’s essential to have an experienced car accident lawyer on your side who can protect your rights and ensure you get the compensation you deserve. At our firm, we are experienced personal injury attorneys who will consider all aspects of your case and provide knowledgeable advice to guide you through this difficult time. In addition, we take pride in offering personalized customer service while delivering results that exceed expectations.
