Auto accidents are a serious problem around the world. They cause injuries, deaths, and financial losses every year.
Reports from the World Health Organization state that over one million people die each year as a result of road traffic accidents.
If you ever find yourself in such a situation, hiring an auto accident lawyer can ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
In this post, we will look at why auto accidents happen and how we can prevent them.
Common Causes of Auto Accidents
Auto accidents happen for various reasons. Here are some of the most common causes and some ways how one can avoid them:
Distracted Driving
Driving while distracted by something like a smartphone is why most auto accidents happen. Distracted driving happens when drivers are not paying full attention to the road. Using a mobile phone, eating, talking to passengers, or adjusting the radio are some forms of distractions.
Ways to avoid distracted driving:
- Put your mobile phone away while driving.
- Set your GPS and music before you start driving.
- Eat before or after your trip, not while driving.
- Keep conversations with passengers to a minimum.
Speeding
Speed thrills but kills is not just a slogan but a fact. Speeding is stillone of the most common causes of accidents. Drivers have very little time to react to other vehicles when they are going too fast. High speeds also make it harder to control the vehicle, especially in bad weather conditions or on slippery roads.
Ways to avoid speeding:
- Always obey speed limits.
- Allow extra travel time so you don’t feel rushed.
- Use cruise control on highways to maintain a constant speed.
- Be mindful of your speed, especially in bad weather or heavy traffic.
Drunk Driving
Driving while under the influence of alcohol or any drug is extremely dangerous. Drunk drivers usually have impaired judgment and slower reaction times. This makes it difficult for them to make safe decisions while driving, leading to accidents.
Ways to avoid drunk driving:
- Arrange a designated driver.
- Opt for public transportation or a ridesharing service.
- Stay overnight at your destination if you have been drinking.
Weather Conditions
Bad weather conditions like rain, fog, snow, or ice can make driving hazardous. Wet or icy roads reduce tire traction, making it hard to stop or turn the vehicle. Poor visibility due to inclement weather can also make it difficult for drivers to see other vehicles or obstacles on the road.
Ways to avoid weather-related accidents:
- Check the weather forecast before you travel.
- Slow down and increase your following distance in bad weather.
- Use headlights in low visibility conditions.
- Regular maintenance of tires and windshield wipers.
Violation of Traffic Signs
Violating traffic signs is a common cause of accidents. Not stopping at a stop sign can lead to accidents. These types of accidents are often severe because they usually involve high-speed impacts.
Ways to avoid running red lights and stop signs:
- Approach intersections with caution.
- Look both ways before proceeding through an intersection.
- Be aware of yellow lights and prepare to stop.
Tailgating
Tailgating, a move where a vehicle follows another vehicle too closely, is dangerous. If the vehicle in front suddenly stops, the tailgating driver may not have enough time to brake, leading to a rear-end collision.
Ways to avoid tailgating:
- Maintain a safe following distance.
- Use the “three-second rule” to gauge your distance.
- Increase the following distance in bad weather or heavy traffic.
- Be patient, and avoid aggressive driving behaviors.
