Thousands of car accidents happen every single year for a wide variety of reasons. However, certain factors have been proven to dramatically increase the chances of a crash. These common causes of car accidents also cause numerous serious injuries every year, making it important to avoid them at all costs. While these common causes are widely-known, it’s still surprising how many people fail to avoid these causes. Want to avoid becoming a statistic? Here are five of the most common causes of car accidents to help you better avoid them.
Alcohol
Driving while intoxicated by either drugs or alcohol is both extraordinarily dangerous and highly illegal. So it’s quite remarkable how many people are arrested and charged with driving under the influence every year. Unfortunately, it doesn’t seem like enough people are arrested because intoxication remains one of the leading causes of accidents and injuries every year.
Speeding
Everyone has come across a driver who shows little to no regard for the speed limit, sometimes choosing to go 10, 20, or even 30 miles per hour faster. Studies have shown this doesn’t get you where you’re trying to go any faster, and it substantially increases the chances of a serious crash on the way there. Speed limits are posted for the safety of you and those around you; it’s best to follow them.
Distraction
Between the rise of “convenient,” technology, our busy schedules, and the improvement of attention-grabbing techniques for advertising, today’s drivers have perhaps never been more distracted. Use of cell phones while behind the wheel is one thing, but simple tasks we’ve all done for years, such as eating or drinking, talking to a passenger, or adjusting the radio can all increase the chances of an accident.
Poor Visibility
A bright and sunny day is optimal for driving, but the weather doesn’t always cooperate with us. Rain, snow, fog, and other weather conditions all reduce visibility which decreases your reaction time. In these instances, it’s strongly advised you slow down and stay focused on the road ahead. Even driving on a dark night with no moonlight can be dangerous if you’re forced to rely on just your headlights.
Breaking Driving Laws
You’ve probably heard the moniker “laws exist to help people.” And while it may sound like a cliché, it holds a remarkable amount of truth, especially behind the wheel. Running a stop sign or red light, failing to signal, or cutting across lanes to turn are all maneuvers that seriously endanger other drivers. Follow all driving laws and your risk of an accident will decrease dramatically.
If you are injured in a car accident, you should discuss your legal options with a Northern California car accident attorney as soon as possible. At the Law Offices of Larry S. Buckley, we don’t stop until we help you obtain the justice you deserve. With a long history of success and thousands of satisfied clients, we have the experience and knowledge you need to handle your case professionally and efficiently. Our millions of dollars in recovered compensation stand as just a testament to our ability, and our awards (including an AV® Preeminent™ rating from Martindale-Hubbell®) stand as a testament to our unwavering dedication to your goals and best interests.
Come see why our clients choose us for their injury claims! Call the Law Offices of Larry S. Buckley today at 530-413-0245 to request a free consultation and get started with your case.