The 12 Most Common Causes of Car Accidents
Ryan Bradley | December 19, 2022 | Car Accident
The only thing that’s more stressful than a car accident is dealing with everything that comes afterward. Whether it’s personal injury, outrageous medical bills, or property damage, getting your life back on track after a car accident can prove to be a struggle.
Given all of the pain and suffering that results from collisions, you would think people would be keener to avoid them. Unfortunately, the number of car accidents is on the rise.
Find out about the 12 most common causes of car accidents so you can be more prepared to avoid them.
Table of Contents
1. Speeding
Unsurprisingly, speeding is a major factor in car accidents across the country. Many drivers do not realize that operating a car at faster speeds slows their reaction time. Speeding drivers have a more difficult time avoiding an accident.
2. Distracted Driving
Some people are under the illusion that they can multitask while driving. Unfortunately, science says otherwise.
When you get behind the wheel of a car, you have an obligation to keep other drivers safe by making good decisions.
If you are focused on any of the following while driving, you may be engaging in distracted driving:
- Texting
- Changing music
- Eating or drinking
- Looking into the back seat
- Talking on the phone without a hands-free system
One of the best ways to avoid distracted driving is to put your phone on silent until you reach your destination — that way, you won’t be tempted to use it.
3. Reckless Driving
If you’ve been out on the road lately, you’ve probably noticed drivers behaving aggressively without regard for the safety of their fellow motorists.
This is called reckless driving and can encompass any of the following behaviors:
- Tailgating
- Cutting drivers off
- Weaving in and out of traffic
- Performing other dangerous maneuvers
Reckless driving is usually combined with other factors, such as speeding, drunk driving, and distracted driving.
4. Drunk Driving
Drinking and operating a vehicle is a serious hazard that has unfortunately ended too many lives. That’s because alcohol and drugs alter your reaction time and promote impulsive decisions.
5. Running Red Lights
Running a red light can cause all sorts of problems, from hitting pedestrians to colliding with other vehicles. Next time you’re barreling toward that intersection when the light is yellow, consider whether arriving at your destination three seconds earlier is really worth putting others and yourself at risk.
6. Hazardous Conditions
Snow, rain, and other inclement weather can make driving a real pain. Many drivers are not used to operating their vehicles in these conditions, increasing the chances of getting into an accident.
7. Inexperienced Drivers
Lack of experience is a major factor in accidents. This applies to drivers who do not understand how to operate their vehicle in specific conditions as well as to drivers who lack the foundational knowledge to keep others safe.
8. Driving at Night
Driving at night can be challenging due to visibility issues and drowsiness. When driving at night, always make sure you are aware whether your brights are on so you aren’t unnecessarily blinding other drivers.
9. Vehicle Defects
Vehicle defects can be a major contributor to accidents. Always make sure you are aware of recalls relating to your vehicle. Do not operate a vehicle you know to be unsafe.
10. Improper Lane Changes
Sudden and erratic lane changes can lead to accidents, especially if speeding or distracted driving is involved.
11. Improper Turns
Like improper lane changes, making an improper turn can lead to a collision and is usually combined with other factors.
12. Going the Wrong Way
Many drivers don’t expect to encounter a driver going the wrong way on the road. Unfortunately, this surprise has resulted in a number of nasty accidents.
Contact a Kansas City Car Accident Lawyer for Help After a Collision
Now that you know the major causes of most car accidents, you can prepare yourself to drive in a safer, more self-aware manner. Remember, your goal should always be to protect your safety and that of the motorists around you.
However, if you find yourself in a collision, contact an experienced Kansas City car accident attorney for a free consultation to discuss your options.
For more information, please contact Bradley Law Personal Injury Lawyers at your nearest location to schedule a free case evaluation today.
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