Car accidents are a common occurrence, and they can be caused by a number of different factors. One of the most frequent culprits is driver negligence, either due to inattentive driving or by operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. Poor road conditions can also lead to an increase in car accidents, caused by climate-related issues such as pooled water, ice, and snow that create hazardous road surfaces.
Additionally, reckless behavior from drivers, like cutting someone off or failing to yield to pedestrians, can easily result in an accident too. Ultimately, the primary cause of car accidents is usually neglect of the rules for safe driving; keeping your full attention on the road and following driving laws is key for avoiding them.
Drowsy Driving
Drowsy driving is a risk not taken seriously enough by the average motorist. Studies have indicated that drowsiness on the road can be more dangerous than drunk driving, yet most drivers fail to take the necessary steps to avoid it. Driving when tired impairs reaction time and decreases our capacity for making good decisions.
Furthermore, one of the leading causes of catastrophic vehicle accidents is drowsy drivers who simply drift off at the wheel or make ill-advised maneuvers due to sluggishness behind the wheel. It is essential to plan long trips carefully and pay attention to signs of fatigue during shorter journeys in order to reduce the risk of drowsy driving as much as possible. Taking regular breaks and avoiding certain medication before getting into a car are just two steps that can help keep drivers safe from this silent danger.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving has become a popular term in recent years as more and more people are caught texting and talking on their phones while behind the wheel. Unfortunately, distracted driving can be incredibly dangerous and often leads to dangerous car accidents. Many research studies show that using a phone while driving increases your chance of being involved in an accident by up to 400%, as well as reduces your reaction time to only half of what it should be while distracted.
This means it can take twice as long for a driver to react in a dangerous situation, making it much more likely for an accident to occur. Although many people still use their phone while behind the wheel, the consequences of not focusing 100% on the road could be far worse than any rewards gained from multitasking.
Drunk Driving
Drinking and driving is a deadly mix. Alcohol affects our motor skills and judgment, making it incredibly dangerous to get behind the wheel of a car after having a few drinks. Not only can drunk drivers cause accidents that seriously hurt or kill themselves, their passengers, or innocent bystanders, but they also risk facing steep fines and even jail time if caught.
We need to be more aware of the dangers associated with getting behind the wheel impaired and make sure we are taking the necessary steps to avoid potentially tragic circumstances. Designated drivers, public transportation, or calling a cab are all viable options if you’ve been drinking; these small choices can make all the difference.
Call our team today at (980) 246-2656 if you suffer injuries in a crash.