9 Most Common Causes Of Car Accidents

Vehicle technology has advanced in various ways, such as integrating forward collision warning systems, backup cameras, and adaptive headlamps. Sadly, thousands of road accidents still occur almost every year, resulting in relatively minor injuries, while some are often fatal. The majority of these accidents happen due to carelessness.

Even when you’re careful, it’s no assurance that other drivers will do the same. If you’re in an auto accident, you shouldn’t be accountable for the harm caused by the negligence or mistakes of other drivers. In such cases, filing a vehicle accident claim is the best approach to protect yourself. Working with a legal professional from reliable firms such as Matz Injury Law and others would be a good starting point if the legalities are too burdensome for you.

Here are several of the most common reasons for car accidents on the road.

1. Distracted Driving

Distracted driving has been one of the leading causes of car accidents in the past years. While driving, you need to pay attention to the road at all times.  Some of the usual causes include talking on a mobile phone and eating or drinking from a bottle.

When driving, make sure to focus your attention on the road. Set your phone to silent mode and keep it in your bag or pocket.

2. Speeding

Although some individuals find it tempting to push the speed limit when running late, you better think twice. Another major factor in automobile accidents all over the world is speeding. Since accidents that involve speeding occur at high speeds, it’s one of the major causes of fatal injuries.

If you want to stay safe, resist the urge to speed up and follow the legal limits. Remember that even a minor increase in speed can increase the chances of a collision.

3. Drunk Driving

Drunk driving is responsible for the deadliest car wrecks, especially during the holidays or weekends.

When a person consumes alcohol, it diminishes response time and capability to focus on the road, increasing the risk of an accident. If you drink alcohol, it would be best to take a taxi or request a sober person to drive for you. Remember, it’s not worth the risk.

If you happen to be part of a car accident wherein the other party is drunk, employ the services of a lawyer to handle your car accident claim to help establish fault while ensuring you get the right compensation.

4. Reckless Driving

When you’re driving recklessly, such as speeding over the limit, tailgating, changing lanes without looking, and acting aggressively, it can put you at risk.

In most cases, reckless driving typically involves a person who’s less concerned about others on the road. Often, it happens in combination with driving under the influence (DUI).

If you’re driving, you need to take your time and stay calm to avoid any unwanted accidents due to simple negligence or carelessness.

5. Poor Weather Conditions

During rainy weather, the road becomes slippery. Although you cannot always avoid driving in the rain, make sure to navigate carefully due to dangerous conditions.

When the road becomes too wet, vehicles are more likely to lose their grip on the road and slide across the surface, reducing control and putting you at risk for an accident.

If there’s poor visibility or the roads seem too slippery, it might be best to pull over and wait until the rain stops. Always stay alert and be familiar with the road conditions, traffic, and speed limits during poor weather.  Not doubt weather phenomenon are common causes of car accidents.

6. Ignoring Traffic Signals

Although it might seem obvious, some drivers don’t follow the rules. Once the traffic light flashes red, you need to stop even if no other cars are coming. Remember that you can cause an accident by running a red light, and you’re also breaking the law.

Some accidents on the road occur at intersections, and the cause is running a red light or a stop sign. Waiting for a short while is a better approach than risking it, which often results in injuries or property damage to others and yourself.

7. Incorrect Turns

An incorrect turn is also a common factor in vehicular accidents. Most accidents typically occur at intersections and when crossing an oncoming traffic lane. You’re more likely at risk of incorrect turn accidents if you fail to use the turn signals or drive in poor weather conditions.

8. Road Hazards

Most drivers expect the road surface to be free of debris, potholes, and other hazards. Sadly, some artificial hazards on the road often lack safety warnings, such as potholes, changes in the road surface, utility hole covers, and many more.

9. Fatigue Or Drowsiness

When a person is sleepy or severely exhausted, it can impair one’s ability to respond to or determine conditions on the road. Sadly, driving under such conditions can also cause accidents on the road.

A drowsy driver usually nods off behind the wheel for a second or two, a phenomenon called micro-sleeping. Sadly, it’s enough for a vehicle to crash. Additionally, drivers who fall asleep at the wheel are likely to have diminished reaction time and muddled decision-making, which may result in a crash.

Final Thoughts

Accidents on the road happen every year. Some can cause minor injuries, while others can be serious or fatal. Now that you’re familiar with the common causes of car accidents, consider switching to a proactive mindset to lower your risk by observing road safety while also following traffic regulations.