Accidents

Most Common Factors in a Vehicle Accident

Vehicle Accident

Even though the pandemic had fewer people on the road in 2020, the number of fatal traffic accidents rose by 4.6% compared to 2019. The National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) found fewer people wore seat belts, and intoxicating substances were more prominent contributing factors than before.

Sometimes, a vehicle accident is just that — an accident. But, unfortunately, other times, risky behavior is the cause. Knowing the top causes of car accidents helps drivers avoid them on the road.

To find out what those causes are, check out the list below.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving was the cause of over 3,000 traffic deaths in 2019 alone, not to mention countless other accidents. This type of driving is not just limited to texting, although that is one of its most dangerous forms.

Distracted driving may look like:

  • Texting
  • Eating
  • Applying makeup
  • Talking on the phone
  • Fiddling with car technology

Many states now have legislation against distracted driving that will result in a ticket, high insurance rates, and points on your license.

Reckless Driving:

Driving While Under the Influence

Reckless driving involves a driver disregarding the rules of the road. When a driver breaks the rules, someone can easily get hurt.

In the United States, this type of driving is deemed more dangerous than careless or improper driving. If you’re involved in an accident with a reckless driver, make sure to contact a personal injury attorney immediately.

Obviously, driving under the influence is one of the most dangerous decisions a driver can make. The worst part is that it doesn’t just affect them, but also others.

Even though states set legal alcohol limits for driving, that does not mean the driver’s ability is not impaired. Impairment begins with one sip of alcohol and compounds with each subsequent sip.

Speeding

Everyone has important places to be, but there’s nothing so important that it’s worth risking lives. Speeding increases the risk of an accident occurring and of fatalities resulting from an accident.

Instead, drivers should make a conscious effort to leave early to get to their destination in time. Additionally, emotions can affect a driver’s speed, and healthy coping mechanisms like mindfulness can help keep those emotions in check.

Inclement Weather

No one wants to drive in bad weather conditions, but sometimes it’s unavoidable. In those cases, make sure to brush up on safety tips to avoid potential dangers.

In fog, keep high beams off, use the white dividing line to guide you, signal early, and remain far behind other vehicles. In the rain, make sure to leave extra early, drive in the middle lane when possible, avoid puddles, and keep a large distance behind other vehicles. In snow or ice, practice braking, turn slowly, accelerate slowly, and look out for black ice.

What to Do After a Vehicle Accident

The first and most important thing to do after a vehicle accident is to remain calm. The next step is to assess whether you or any passengers are injured and call the paramedics if necessary. Don’t forget to follow that call with a call to the police to get an official police report.

To learn more about the legal aspect of driving, take a second to browse our page.

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