Last Updated on February 5, 2024 by John Robinson
Driving is a necessary part of everyday life. Whether you are driving to work, picking up groceries, or taking your kids to school, the car is always there for you. But what happens when something goes wrong? That’s where this blog post comes in! It will talk about the most common causes of car accidents and how to stay safe while on the road.
3 Common Causes Of Car Accidents
1. Speeding
Statistics show that car accidents are the leading cause of death for people under the age of 34. One of the most common causes of this statistic is speeding. Speeding is a major factor in car accidents and can lead to higher insurance rates, a damaged vehicle, and even jail time. The seasoned law practitioners behind Pittman, Roberts & Welsh, PLLC suggest that the next time you get behind the wheel of your car, remember to slow down. This will alleviate you from having to deal with the added stress of an accident.
2. Drunk driving
Drunk driving is also a common cause of car accidents. Drivers who have been drinking should make sure they don’t get behind the wheel. Instead, they should call someone to pick them up or find a designated driver. A DUI can result in loss of license and even jail time. If you are convicted of your first DUI offense, the chances of having it expunged from your record are slim-to-none.
Even if the allowable alcohol limit for driving is 0.08 percent, you can still be arrested if the police officer believes that your ability to drive has been impaired by drugs or alcohol. This means that you could be arrested with a blood alcohol content of 0.07 percent or even lower, depending on the officer’s judgment. For this reason, it is best not to get behind the wheel when you have had a couple of drinks because this can still impair your judgment and ability to safely operate a vehicle.
3. Distracted driving
Distracted driving has become more prevalent due to smartphones and other devices, which may lead to an accident if not used responsibly. For example, texting and driving are one of the most common causes of car accidents. It only takes a second for an accident to happen when you’re distracted behind the wheel, which is why it’s highly recommended that you keep your eyes on the road and hands upon the wheel at all times. Drivers should never text while driving or use their phones for anything other than operating their vehicle.
Accidents can happen in a split second, so make sure to stay alert when operating a vehicle. Drivers must stay focused on the road ahead so they’re aware of any potential hazards in front of them. If you are in an accident because of distracted driving, be sure that your car insurance covers the damages. On the road, you never know what may happen. That’s why drivers must be attentive and aware of their surroundings while behind the wheel to help prevent a car accident from happening in the first place. If an accident does occur despite your best efforts, be sure to contact an experienced attorney who can advocate on your behalf if need be.
Tips to stay safe on the road
- Be aware of traffic laws
You need to be familiar with the speed limits in your area, as well as the rules of the road. This will ensure that you will be able to follow the speed limits and avoid getting a ticket. In the end, you will be able to continue to stay safe on the road and help prevent an accident from happening. - Avoid drunk driving
As much as possible, find a designated driver or call for an Uber/taxi to take you home if need be. Driving while intoxicated can lead to a DUI which may result in jail time, loss of license, and higher insurance costs. It can even be fatal, so never drink and drive. - Be cautious of other drivers
Drivers should be aware of their surrounding traffic, including what type of vehicles are around them and how fast they’re going to avoid a collision. Drivers need to remember that most accidents occur because people simply aren’t paying attention and getting distracted. Hence, it’s important to be aware of drivers who are texting, speeding, or driving recklessly. - Stay off the phone while driving
Research shows that drivers are four times more likely to be involved in an accident if they use their phones for anything other than operating their vehicle. Over 50% of all accidents involving teens can be attributed to distracted driving. If you need to make or take a call, pull over to the side of the road. Otherwise, it is best to wait until you arrive at your destination before making any phone calls or texting others. - Make sure that everyone in your car is buckled up
Many accidents can be prevented if all passengers are wearing their seat belts while on the road. Seatbelts save lives, and statistics show that those who aren’t wearing a seatbelt are 40 times more likely to be ejected from the vehicle during an accident. In addition, drivers and passengers should make sure their children are buckled up as well. - Maintain your car to be safe for driving
Before you get behind the wheel of your vehicle, be sure that it’s in good working order. If there are any problems with the brake or steering system, this could cause an accident to happen while on the road. It may also help if drivers check their tires before they leave, to avoid a flat or blowout while on the road.
Conclusion
Drivers should always be aware of their surroundings and never text while driving. If you’re drinking, it’s best to find a designated driver or call an Uber/Lyft. Make sure not to use your phone for anything other than operating the vehicle as well. And don’t forget that speeding is one of the leading causes of car accidents so make sure you obey all speed limits and stay away from distractions when behind the wheel. All drivers need to keep themselves focused. If they do this, there will be fewer chances for accidents in general.
