There have been significant advances in vehicle safety technology in the last two decades. Still, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports at least 35,600 people died in car crashes in 2018. In addition, more than 2.5 million injured parties had injuries that required medical treatment.
Whether bumps, bruises, or a broken bone, car accidents can turn your once-routine life upside down. A crash caused by another person can lead to drained savings, job loss, and endless pain and suffering. But with the help of a personal injury lawyer, you can get the money you need for a full recovery.
Learn more below about the common causes of car accidents. Next, talk to The Francis Firm for more information about your legal options.
Most Common Causes Of Car Accidents — Driver Error
Statistics show that driver errors cause most car accidents. The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration reports that 95% of car accidents are because of driver error. While most of us make mistakes while behind the wheel, some of these errors can cause devastating car accidents. The most frequent driver errors causing accidents are:
Distracted Driving
The most common cause of car accidents involving driver error is distracted driving. While we often hear about how people can multitask, brain science shows that we cannot focus simultaneously on more than one thing. For example, while texting your girlfriend while driving, your attention is diverted from vital driving tasks.
Eating, drinking, fiddling with the radio, and phone conversations are other types of distracted driving that cause terrible accidents. Put down and shut off the phone - you are less likely to die in a car accident.
Speeding
Everyone is late sometimes, but running behind doesn’t justify speeding and endangering the public. Thousands of car accidents are caused annually by speeding drivers, so slow down.
Running Red Lights
A red light means you should stop. Even if you think no other cars are in the area, a terrible crash can happen when ignoring a red light. No matter how busy and behind you might be, running a red light is always wrong.
Driver Fatigue
Did you know that driving while sleepy is just as dangerous as drinking and driving? Your reflexes and ability to make decisions are affected by fatigue. Avoid serious accidents by getting the rest you need every night.
Reckless Driving
Reckless driving may entail switching lanes constantly, tailgating, and speeding. By driving aggressively, you risk the safety of everyone around you. In addition, you could be sued in civil court if you cause an accident and injure others.
Other Common Causes Of Car Accidents
Many accidents are due to driver error. But others are from other causes. The following are the most common causes of car accidents unrelated to human error:
Bad Weather
Slick roads from ice, rain, and snow reduce traction and cause traffic accidents. You can be held liable in civil court if you lose control and injure another driver. Slowing down when the weather turns bad is important so you keep control.
Poorly Maintained Roads
Some accidents are caused by uneven pavement, poor road signage, and road design defects. A personal injury attorney could hold them accountable if a construction company or government agency’s negligence caused your accident.
Defective Parts Or Vehicle
Vehicle defects also cause many car accidents. For instance, tire or brake failure can lead to terrible accidents. A product defect attorney can help you hold the vehicle or part manufacturer liable in civil court for your damages.
How To Avoid Car Accidents
Now you know the most common causes of car accidents. So how can you avoid them? Just follow these tips:
- Scan the road. When on long drives, it is common to “zone out” and not look ahead on the road. However, an effective way to avoid accidents is always to scan the street far ahead. Observe how traffic moves because this can make reacting to obstructions and hazards easier.
- Don’t drive in the left lane more than necessary. Many highway crashes happen in the left lane. If you stay in the right lane, there are more options if a hazard appears.
- Keep both hands on the wheel. After driving for years, many of us may drive with one hand. However, having two hands on the wheel can avoid a severe crash if something goes wrong.
- Don’t push the limits. Every driver should understand the limits of their vehicle. If you drive too hard and fast, losing control is easy.
Injured In A Car Crash? Contact A Personal Injury Attorney Today
Did you get hurt in a Dallas, Fort Worth, or Southlake car accident? With the help of a car accident attorney, you could receive compensation for your injuries and losses. Contact one of our car accident lawyers today for a free consultation.