When driving, one must be aware of the most common causes of car accidents. By knowing what these causes are, you can take steps to avoid them and keep yourself and your passengers safe on the road. You’ll save a lot on repairs, legal fees, and medical bills.
This article will discuss the most common causes of car accidents and offer tips on avoiding them to stay safe.
1. Distracted Driving
The leading cause of car accidents is distracted driving. Distracted driving can range from talking on the phone to fiddling with the radio. So, keeping your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road at all times is essential. Pull over to a safe location if you need to do something that takes your attention away from driving.
However, many people injured in a car accident in Chicago each year are the victims of distracted driving; that is why it’s essential to follow the tips below to avoid distracted driving:
If the driver is a minor the distraction could happen easily and it would lead to child custody. To learn more about it Follow url.
Use Your Phone Only In Emergencies
When driving, you should use your phone for emergencies only. Pull over to a safe location first if you need to make a call.
Don’t Text And Drive
Texting is one of the most dangerous things you can do while driving. It takes your eyes off the road and your hands off the wheel.
Limit The Number Of Passengers And Level Of Activities
The more passengers you have in your car, the more likely you will be involved in an accident. And if those passengers engage in activities that take your attention away from driving, it’s even worse. So limit the number of passengers and level of action inside your vehicle.
Avoid Snacking While Driving
Eating or drinking while driving is a recipe for disaster. It’s hard to drive without worrying about spills and dropped food. So save the snacking for when you’re not behind the wheel.
2. Speeding
Another common cause of car accidents is speeding. Many people think they can save time by speeding, but it’s not worth the risk. In fact, speeding increases your chances of losing control of your vehicle and getting into an accident. It also makes it more difficult to stop in time if something unexpected happens.
If you’re in a hurry, leave early so you can drive at the speed limit. Remember, it’s not worth risking your life or the lives of others just to save a few minutes.
3. Driving Under The Influence
Never get behind the wheel if you’ve been drinking alcohol or taking drugs. Drugs and alcohol impair your judgment and reaction time, making it more difficult to drive safely. If caught driving under the influence, you could face jail time, lose your license, and pay expensive fines.
Driving drowsy is just as dangerous as driving under the influence. If you’re tired, take a break or pull over and take a nap. It’s not worth continuing to navigate if you can’t keep your eyes open.
There are several ways to avoid drunk driving; these include:
- Use a designated driver if you’re going to be drinking
- Take public transportation or use a ride-sharing service
- Stay overnight at your destination if you plan on drinking
- Don’t let friends or family members drive drunk
4. Reckless Driving
Speeding, tailgating, weaving, running red lights, and stop signs are examples of reckless driving. Reckless driving is dangerous and often leads to accidents, and you could be fined or even arrested if you’re caught driving recklessly.
In 2020, accidents as a result of speeding increased by 17%. Therefore, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the road rules and drive carefully. Also, give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination, so you don’t have to drive recklessly to compensate for the lost time.
Most importantly, avoid getting into competitions with other drivers. If someone is tailgating you or trying to race you, let them go. It’s not worth getting into an accident over.
5. Weather Conditions
Another common cause of car accidents is inclement weather. Rain, sleet, snow, and ice can make driving conditions treacherous. If you must drive in bad weather, take your time and be extra careful. Remember to allow extra space between you and other cars, as it takes longer to stop in wet or icy conditions.
In addition, ensure to turn on your headlights so that other drivers can see you. And, if possible, avoid driving during rush hour when traffic is at its heaviest. It’s also crucial to give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination when driving in bad weather. If you run into delays, you won’t be racing to make up time and can take it slow.
Wrapping Up
These are just a few of the most common causes of car accidents. By being aware of these dangers and taking steps to avoid them, you can help keep yourself and others safe on the road. However, remember that even the safest drivers can’t always avoid accidents. If you are involved in a collision, speak with an experienced car accident lawyer to discuss your legal options.
An attorney can help you understand your rights and options and fight for the compensation you deserve. Not to mention, having an attorney on your side can help to ease the stress and confusion that often comes with car accidents.
