There are many causes of car accidents. Some are more common than others, and some are more serious. In this blog post, we will rank the most common causes of car accidents. This information is based on data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Keep in mind that every accident is unique, and these rankings should not be taken as gospel. With that said, let’s take a look at the most common causes of car accidents!
1) Distracted driving
This is by far the most common cause of car accidents. Distracted driving can include anything from texting to eating to talking to passengers. If you’re not paying attention to the road, you’re more likely to have an accident. Law professionals at Sumner Law Group state that it`s an alarming problem that the popularity of the smartphone makes it even worse. Distracted driving collisions kill thousands of Americans each year, and many more are injured. Texting while driving is especially dangerous because it takes your eyes off the road and your hands off the wheel. If you must text, pull over to a safe spot first.
2) Speeding
Another common cause of car accidents is speeding. Speed limits are in place for a reason, and speeding makes it more difficult to control your vehicle. It also increases the severity of an accident if one does occur. If you’re speeding and get into an accident, you’re more likely to be killed or seriously injured. Research has shown that speeding is a factor in around 30% of fatal crashes. So next time you’re tempted to speed, remember that it’s not worth the risk.
3) Reckless Driving
Reckless driving is similar to speeding, but it also includes other dangerous behaviors like tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, and running red lights. Reckless driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents because it puts other drivers at risk. If you’re driving recklessly, you’re more likely to cause an accident. So please drive safely and don’t put other people’s lives at risk!
4) Driving Under the Influence
This is one of the most serious causes of car accidents. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs your ability to drive. It can slow your reaction time, make you drowsy, and cause you to make poor decisions. Driving under the influence is a factor in around 28% of fatal crashes. If you’re going to drink, don’t drive. And if you’re going to drive, don’t drink. It’s not worth the risk! Be aware of the dangers of driving under the influence and make sure you never do it. This way, you can help keep yourself and others safe on the road.
5) Weather
Bad weather is another common cause of car accidents. If the roads are icy, visibility is low, or there’s a severe storm, it can be more difficult to drive. In these conditions, it’s important to slow down and be extra cautious. Remember that even if you’re a good driver, other people on the road might not be. So please drive carefully in bad weather and give yourself extra time to get to your destination. For instance, if a winter storm is forecast, give yourself extra time to get to your destination. Or, if you’re driving in the rain, slow down and be extra careful.
6) Road Conditions
Poor road conditions are another cause of car accidents. If the roads are full of potholes, construction is ongoing, or there’s debris on the road, it can be more difficult to drive. In these conditions, it’s important to slow down and be extra cautious. Remember that even if you’re a good driver, other people on the road might not be and roads can be bad, so even if you`re driving the speed limit, you might want to drive slower.
7) Animal Crossing
One of the less common causes of car accidents is animals crossing the road. If you hit an animal, it can damage your car and injure or kill the animal. It’s important to be aware of your surroundings and drive carefully in areas where there might be animals. If you see an animal on the road, slow down and be prepared to stop.
These are the most common causes of car accidents. If you’re a driver, be sure to avoid these behaviors. And if you’re involved in an accident, be sure to contact a personal injury lawyer who can help you get the compensation you deserve. Also, keep in mind that even if you’re not at fault, you might still be responsible for damages. So it’s always best to drive safely and be prepared for the worst. Drive safe!
