Top Causes of Car Accidents
According to the U.S. Census Bureau there were over 10 million car accidents in 2008 in the United States. These accidents resulted in 39,000 deaths and many life-altering injuries. Car accidents happen for many reasons, most of which are avoidable. The five top causes of car accidents include:
Distracted driving Most car accidents could be avoided if every driver were attentive and focused. Unfortunately there are many ways a driver can become distracted. Cell phones are number one on the list and the Washington Post states that 28 percent of all accidents are caused by talking or texting on a cell phone. Other common distractions include rubbernecking, looking at the scenery, adjusting the radio or focusing on children. If you plan on taking your eyes off the road for more than five seconds you should pull your car to the side of the road. There is no sense in trying to multitask while driving, it is dangerous and not worth the risk.
Driving under the influence According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration someone is killed in an alcohol-impaired driving crash about every 50 minutes in the U.S. Driving under the influence is also the most easily preventable cause of car accidents. If you are under the influence of any alcohol, prescription or recreational drug you should not get behind the wheel.
Reckless driving Speeding and aggressive driving heighten your risk for an accident. While about 90 percent of the population has admitted to speeding at one time or another, making a habit of it can be dangerous. Always use the three second rule when driving, which keeps you at least three seconds from the closest driver and helps buffer your reaction time. Avoiding aggressive drivers is always smart. Do not interact with them or let their behavior effect you. Letting an aggressive pass you is the best solution.
Driver fatigue Driving for long distances, while you may be seated, can still be very tiring. Your senses are heightened and you must remain focused and alert. If you feel tired or fatigued, pull over.
Roadway design While roadway design can lead to an increase in car accidents, it is more the behavior of the driver. Most sharp curves or rocky roads will have signs instructing you how to drive and at what speed. Following these signs can be very important in keeping you safe. With harsh weather conditions, always go 10-20 mph slower than the posted speed. This will help you navigate through difficult or unfamiliar road designs.
If you have been in a car accident, please contact a Killeen personal injury attorney as soon as possible to learn more about your legal rights.
Distracted driving Most car accidents could be avoided if every driver were attentive and focused. Unfortunately there are many ways a driver can become distracted. Cell phones are number one on the list and the Washington Post states that 28 percent of all accidents are caused by talking or texting on a cell phone. Other common distractions include rubbernecking, looking at the scenery, adjusting the radio or focusing on children. If you plan on taking your eyes off the road for more than five seconds you should pull your car to the side of the road. There is no sense in trying to multitask while driving, it is dangerous and not worth the risk.
Driving under the influence According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration someone is killed in an alcohol-impaired driving crash about every 50 minutes in the U.S. Driving under the influence is also the most easily preventable cause of car accidents. If you are under the influence of any alcohol, prescription or recreational drug you should not get behind the wheel.
Reckless driving Speeding and aggressive driving heighten your risk for an accident. While about 90 percent of the population has admitted to speeding at one time or another, making a habit of it can be dangerous. Always use the three second rule when driving, which keeps you at least three seconds from the closest driver and helps buffer your reaction time. Avoiding aggressive drivers is always smart. Do not interact with them or let their behavior effect you. Letting an aggressive pass you is the best solution.
Driver fatigue Driving for long distances, while you may be seated, can still be very tiring. Your senses are heightened and you must remain focused and alert. If you feel tired or fatigued, pull over.
Roadway design While roadway design can lead to an increase in car accidents, it is more the behavior of the driver. Most sharp curves or rocky roads will have signs instructing you how to drive and at what speed. Following these signs can be very important in keeping you safe. With harsh weather conditions, always go 10-20 mph slower than the posted speed. This will help you navigate through difficult or unfamiliar road designs.
If you have been in a car accident, please contact a Killeen personal injury attorney as soon as possible to learn more about your legal rights.
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