5 Common Causes of Car Accidents in the United States
In 2019 alone, there were over 6.7 million car accidents reported to the police. However, the good news is – most car accidents could have been prevented by becoming aware of the common causes of car accidents.
Even worse, texting is responsible for 25% of all car accidents. This is why it’s crucial to focus on the road and not your phone.
No matter if you’re a new driver or a seasoned veteran of the roads, brushing up on your car accident prevention knowledge is a wise decision and one that may very well save your life or the lives of your loved ones. Keep reading to learn about the most common causes of car accidents and ways to prevent them.
1. Distracted Driving
The more we become comfortable with our driving ability, the more tempting it is to do other things while we are driving. Distracted driving is by far the most common cause of car accidents. Common distracted driving determined as causes of accidents include:
- Talking/texting on the phone
- Eating
- Applying makeup, grooming
- Watching videos, reading, checking directions
A driver must always be prepared for unexpected and split-second changes in the driving conditions around them. If you are paying attention to someone or something else, chances are you will miss a split second chance to avoid an accident.
2. Driving While Intoxicated
Driving while intoxicated is one of the most common causes of car accidents. There isn’t a lot to say here other than it is irresponsible, not to mention criminal, to drive while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. Don’t do it.
When you are a victim of a car accident due to intoxicated driving, finding a car accident lawyer is vital in making sure you are compensated fairly for any injuries or damage to personal property.
3. Weather Conditions
Ideally, we should never drive when road conditions are not ideal. Of course, this is not always possible.
Driving in rain, snow, or other weather conditions increases the chances of car crashes. Be sure to have plenty of traction on your tires, leave early so you can take your time driving, and ensure your headlights and brake lights are fully functioning.
4. Failure to Follow the Rules of the Road
Do you ever catch yourself wondering why you have to stop at a stop sign when there are clearly no cars coming? Ever tempted to go ahead and pass a slow-moving vehicle even though you’re in a no pass section of road?
You have heard it before but we would be remiss if we didn’t say it again: the rules of the road are there for the protection of all drivers, passengers, and pedestrians using the city roads. Make a habit of following all rules of the road no matter how seemingly small the need.
5. Road Rage
Tailgating and laying on the horn is a common way drivers communicate their disapproval of other drivers on the road. Yet, tailgating is an extremely dangerous act of defiance that increases your chance of car collision as a result.
Stay calm and stay clear of situations that put others and yourself in danger.
Car Accidents: Know How to Avoid Them
Learning how to avoid car accidents is every driver’s responsibility. Developing good driving habits and keeping in mind the common causes of car accidents is your best chance of avoiding them.
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