Each year, there are 6 million car accidents in the United States. Learning how to drive a car not only requires knowledge of operating the vehicle, but it requires knowledge on how to drive defensively as well. Even if you know you’re a safe driver, you can’t control the other vehicles on the road.
Because of this, it’s important to know what causes most car accidents. Once you have an idea of the most common causes of car accidents, you can then take the necessary steps to prevent yourself from being involved in one.
Continue reading below to discover a few causes of traffic accidents.
Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence of alcohol or any other type of drug that has an effect on your mental state and ability to focus should be avoided at all times. Not only is it illegal to drive while under the influence, but you also put yourself and others at risk when doing so.
Even if you’ve only had a small amount to drink, make sure you have a designated driver to take you home or bring you to your destination. If needed, you can always contact a taxi service as well. Know the signs of a drunk driver to avoid them while on the road also.
Driving While Distracted
Distracted driving is another common cause of car accidents. With the height of technology, there are more distractions than ever. Cell phones, tablets, food, and multiple options on the radio are just a few distractions in the car with you as you drive.
All it takes is one quick moment to check your cell phone, before finding yourself in a car accident. To prevent this, eliminate all distractions and distance yourself from distracted drivers on the road.
Driving at High Speeds
Although we may not always prefer to follow the speed limit. Speed limits are put in place for a reason: to keep us safe. There are several factors that are taken into consideration before the correct speed limit is set in place.
Failing to follow the speed limit is another common cause of car accidents. Whether there’s a sharp turn ahead or whether the roads in that area become slippery after a rainstorm, speeding will prevent you from handling your vehicle the way you need to in situations like these.
If an accident were to happen, then be sure to have a reputable car accident attorney by your side who can provide you with the representation you’ll need.
Failing to Follow Traffic Laws
Similar to ignoring the speed limit, ignoring traffic laws causes car accidents as well. Running stop signs and red lights will put yourself and others at risk. Try to follow all the traffic laws at all times.
There might be a time or two when you’re traveling under the light just as it turns red, and you can’t prevent this. This happens. What’s important is you don’t ignore these laws by choice.
Know What Causes Most Car Accidents, so You Can Avoid One
When you’re familiar with what causes most car accidents, you can then prepare to drive defensively. Not only should you know what not to do while driving, but you should stay cautious of other drivers around you as well. Use the information given here to ensure you stay safe while on the road.
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