Despite all the new advancements in vehicle technology, such as backup cameras, adaptive headlights, and many other things, accidents still happen. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there are roughly over 36,000 people killed each year on the roads. Among that, there are nearly 2.71 million accident victims who sustained injuries that required medical attention.
No matter if the accident is minor or severe, it can drastically change a person’s life. Just because traffic accidents are common doesn’t mean familiarizing yourself with the facts should be brushed aside. Knowing the facts could help you avoid an accident, and our friends at Norris Law have compiled some information for you below.
Common Causes Due to Driver Error
Human error causes about 94% of all road accidents. At some point, many drivers will find themselves guilty of committing some of the most common causes of traffic accidents even if they didn’t cause an accident at the time. Some of the most common reasons that accidents happen when it comes to driver error are:
Distracted Driving
One of the most common reasons that accidents happen is because of distracted driving. Despite popular opinion, the brain is incapable of focusing on more than one task at a time. This means that if a driver is texting, talking on the phone, grooming, reading, or even eating while driving, the brain is having to switch between tasks and cannot consistently focus on what’s ahead. Remember that your only job when you’re behind the wheel is to safely get where you’re going.
Speeding
We’ve all had drivers blast past us on the highway even if we are going over the speed limit ourselves. It is not unusual for people to drive 10 to 20 miles over the posted speed limit. You should keep in mind that the faster you drive, the slower your reaction time will be. If you need to prevent a car accident while driving over the speed limit, the chances are the accident can’t be prevented.
Drunk Driving
Anyone who drinks and gets behind the wheel is a danger to themselves and others. When you drink, your senses and cognitive functions are dulled. When you get behind the wheel like this, your reaction times are slowed and your decision-making capabilities are compromised. This could lead to very serious accidents that could have been avoided had you been sober.
Reckless Driving
Weaving in and out of traffic, tailgating, and cutting other drivers off are all examples of reckless driving. They can lead to severe accidents. If you see someone driving around like this, you should back off and give them space. There is very little you can do if you see someone driving this way and the most important thing is to protect yourself and report the driver once you are no longer on the road.
Car accidents are terrifying and that is why we suggest talking to a car accident lawyer if you have been in one.