Car accidents are estimated to cause the death of close to 40,000 people each year in the United States. An additional 2.4 million people are either injured or left disabled by the car accident. This article will explore the most common causes of car accidents so that hopefully you can avoid a crash and stay safe.
Distracted Driving Leads to Car Accidents
Distracted driving, which means any activity that requires you to take your attention off the road, is responsible for 3,450 fatalities in 2016 alone, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Distractions include looking down to change the music, answering a text, or even making a call. You can even become distracted trying to read another car’s bumper sticker, eating a sandwich, applying makeup or daydreaming.
Avoid distracted driving by not answering texts or calls while driving unless your car has a handsfree option. Try to do your morning routine at home, and for those regular commutes, put on a long podcast or a special playlist that you won’t have to change.
Drunk Driving
Sadly drunk driving claimed over 10,000 people in 2015, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Thousands more are injured by drunk drivers each year. Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is extremely dangerous for yourself and for other drivers and pedestrians.
You are hindered from being able to make the quick judgments you need to make while driving, recognizing dangerous road conditions, and driving in a safe and legal manner.
Reckless Driving
Things like tailgating, speeding, not using turn signals properly, weaving in traffic, failing to yield the right-of-way, and running red lights or stop signs are all classified as reckless driving. Drivers who break the federal and state traffic laws endanger everyone on the road and can face criminal penalties in addition to civil liability.
Poor Maintenance
Defective car parts from a lack of maintenance are responsible for a significant number of traffic accidents each year. Faulty tires, breaks, airbags, and other important components can contribute to a crash. If a part was defectively designed or manufactured, or there were not adequate warnings about the part, the manufacturer may be liable in court.
Poor Road and Weather Conditions
Bad weather, road construction, and other dangerous conditions can contribute to a car accident. Inclement weather like rain, fog, hail, thunderstorms, and even strong winds can all cause accidents by decreasing visibility and making driving very difficult. Be extra careful in such circumstances of your surroundings to prevent an accident.
Tips to Avoid Car Accidents
First, be sure to avoid distracted driving! Just following this one tip alone increases your chance of having a safe and easy ride. Always have both hands on the wheel and be scanning for upcoming obstacles or sudden changes in traffic. If you are someone who is glued to their phone, try putting it in the backseat and in silent or airplane mode until you reach your destination.
Second, never drive drunk. It is a bad decision for you and for other drivers. Call an Uber, or get a ride from a friend instead of driving drunk. Failing to do so can land you in serious legal trouble, should you survive the trip.
Finally, always practice defensive driving. Maintain a safe distance between yourself and the car in front of you and around you. During bad weather, drive slower and use your headlights.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident and you live in Glendale, CA, call Shirvanian Law Firm at (818) 835-5396 to schedule a consultation today.
