It is estimated that nearly 40,000 people die in traffic accidents each year in the United States. An additional 2.4 million are injured or disabled. Our firm wants you to be informed of the most common causes of car accidents, and how you can stay safe and avoid a crash.
The Most Common Causes of Car Accidents Include:
- Distracted Driving
Distracted driving was responsible for 3,450 fatalities in 2016 alone, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Distractions include things that take your eyes off the road, your hands off the wheel, and your mind off of driving. Gazing at the scenery, trying to read another car’s bumper sticker, eating a sandwich, messing with A/C or radio controls, texting, worrying about family issues, and daydreaming all count as distracted driving
- Drunk Driving
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drunk driving accidents claimed the lives of more than 10,000 people in 2015. Thousands more are injured each year. Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is very dangerous, because it hinders your ability to make quick judgments, recognize dangerous road conditions, and drive in a safe and legal manner.
- Reckless Driving
Reckless driving involves tailgating, speeding, failing to use turn signals, weaving between lanes of traffic, failing to yield the right-of-way, and running red lights or stop signs. Drivers who break federal and state traffic laws put everyone on the road at risk, and may face criminal penalties in addition to civil liability.
- Defective Car Parts
Defective car parts also cause a number of traffic accidents each year. Faulty tires, brakes, air bags, and other components may contribute to a crash. If the part was defectively designed or manufactured, or there were no adequate warnings about the part, the manufacturer may be held liable in court.
- Road & Weather Conditions
Inclement weather, road construction, and other conditions could contribute to a traffic accident. Rain, fog, hail, thunder storms, and strong winds decrease visibility and make driving difficult. This increases the risk of a crash.
Tips to Avoid a Car Accident
While you can’t control the actions of others, there are steps you can take to increase your safety. As a rule, you should avoid distracted driving at all costs, and always have your hands on the wheel, your eyes scanning the road for obstacles, and your mind focused on driving. If necessary, you should put your phone in the back seat or in the trunk while you drive to eliminate distractions.
Furthermore, you should call an Uber or a friend to pick you up instead of driving while drunk. It is also important to practice defensive driving habits, such as maintaining a safe and legal speed and keeping plenty of distance between your car and the cars around you. During bad weather, you should use your headlights and go 5-10 miles per hour under than the speed limit. By following these tips, you can increase your safety and help avoid a traffic accident.
If you or a loved one have been injured in a car wreck, Politis & Matovina, P.A. is here to help. We provide efficient representation to injured clients, and will guide you through the legal process. Our Daytona Beach car accidentattorneys have 25 years of experience, and have recovered more than $200 million for our clients. Contact our firm today to schedule a free consultation.