7 Common Causes of Car Accidents You Should Know About

Car crashes are a common occurrence on roads worldwide, and understanding the major causes can help us take steps to prevent them. Car accidents occur for various reasons. By knowing the typical causes of car accidents, you can reduce your chance of being involved in one.

If you are injured in a car accident, then it is important to consult a car accident attorney. Hiring the best car accident attorneys can help you understand your legal rights and options.

Here are seven causes of car accidents you should be aware of:

• Speeding
• Distracted Driving
• Failure to yield
• Alcohol Impairment
• Fatigued Driving
• Tailgating
• Auto Defects

Speeding

Speeding is one of the most common causes of car accidents. When drivers exceed the speed limit, their ability to respond to unexpected situations is greatly reduced.

The following are the challenges that occur due to speeding:

• Speeding can cause swerving, skidding, or losing control of the car, which can result in more serious injuries or even death.
• It can lower the reaction time and braking distance of the driver. This can make them unable to stop or avoid it in time when required.
• Speeding impairs the vision of the driver by decreasing the contrast between the road and the background. This can make it difficult for them to see signs or hazards that indicate a change in road layout or traffic conditions.
• Speeding can also decrease the comfort and road safety of the driver by increasing their blood pressure and stress levels. This can make them more prone to aggression, fatigue, or distraction while driving.

Drivers should follow speed limits and adjust their speed according to road conditions.

Distracted Driving

Undoubtedly, distracted driving is also a major reason for car crashes. There are three types of distractions while driving: manual distraction, visual distraction, and cognitive distraction.

• Manual distraction occurs when the driver takes his or her hands off the steering wheel.
• Visual distraction occurs when the driver stops observing the roadway.
• Cognitive distraction refers to a driver who pays attention somewhere else while driving.

Distractions can take various forms, such as

• Talking on the phone
• Texting and driving
• Grooming
• Eating or drinking
• Talking to passengers or tending to children

It is important to eliminate distractions and prioritize safe driving habits while behind the wheel to decrease the risk of distracted driving.

Failure to Yield

Every driver should give importance to other roadway users. The following are some of the best driving practices to follow.

• The driver must consider the traffic circle, stop signs, and red lights while driving.
• At marked crosswalks, drivers should respect the rights of pedestrians and stop before entering the street.
• Once a school bus stops and displays its stop sign, the driver must remain stationary until the bus moves.
• Drivers should be aware and look for traffic and pedestrians before turning at an intersection.
• Drivers should be careful and check for pedestrians before making a U-turn.

Failure to yield often causes deadly broadside accidents. This type of accident happens when the front of one vehicle hits the side of another vehicle.

Alcohol Impairment

Alcohol-impaired drivers lead to drunk driving accidents. Alcohol impairment affects the physical functionality and mental health of a driver. An alcohol-impaired driver experiences fear, dizziness, and a lack of decision-making abilities.

Fatigued Driving

Fatigued driving is also a serious road safety issue that can impact anyone, no matter how experienced a driver they are. This generally happens when a driver has not slept enough, works long hours or night shifts, or takes medicines that make them sleepy.

Drivers should be aware of the warning signs of fatigued driving. This includes

• Blinking or yawning frequently
• Missing an exit
• Having trouble remembering the past few miles driven
• Hitting a rumble strip on the side of the road
• Drifting off the lane

Tailgating

Tailgating is also known as aggressive driving. It occurs when a driver closely follows another car in front. This often leads to rear-end accidents.

If you follow the vehicle in front of you too closely and it stops or slows down, you may not be able to stop your vehicle in time.

Auto Defects

Defective auto parts can also be a reason for a car accident. Before driving, the driver should check the condition of the car and also check for defects in the steering mechanisms, braking, or tires.

It is also important to perform regular maintenance on your car. By doing so, the driver can avoid a car accident. The drivers can also pursue a product liability claim against the distributor or manufacturer of cars and car parts.

Final Thoughts

We hope our article has helped you understand the common causes of car accidents. It is important to drive responsibly to avoid accidents.