5 Most Common Causes Of Car Accidents To Avoid

Going on a road trip? Plan ahead by taking every precaution and ready yourself (and your car) for the endless hours of driving ahead. Nobody wants to be in a car accident. However, when on the road there are many uncontrollable factors.

Here are the five most common causes of car accidents with simple solutions:

Distracted Driving

The percentage of car accidents that revolve around distracted driving is growing to terrifyingly high levels. With more and more technology to distract us, it’s a growing problem and it’s mercilessly taking its toll. Texting and smartphone usage has become the most common manifestation of the driving distraction, but other distractions that also commonly cause accidents include tuning the radio (or other audio-related action, like changing the CD), eating, talking to others and putting on make up.

Solution: Just drive. Really. Everything else can wait. Even if you feel like it really can’t – really, it can. Don’t put your life or anyone else’s life in danger just because you absolutely must eat in the car or check your texts. Leaving earlier or putting your phone away from the driver’s seat could be annoying or troublesome, but it’s a lot better than the alternative.

Reckless Driving

Speeding is a common practice among drivers these days, and for many unfortunately, it’s not until they’ve gotten a ticket, or in an accident, that they finally realise that it’s not worth it. Other reckless driving behaviours include failing to signal properly, unsafe lane changes, tailgating and failing to yield the right of way.

Solution: Be respectful not only of the laws but of the drivers with whom you’re sharing the road. Don’t assume that other drivers can read your mind or that your “courageous,” reckless driving will impress anyone.

Equipment Failure

Surprisingly, numerous car accidents can happen because of the car’s mechanical failure. Tire blow-outs, brake failures, steering failure and suspension failures all cause the car to lose control and accidents commonly happen as a result.

Solution: Because of this, it is critical for you to keep up with maintaining your car. If you’re driving a vehicle that is rented or leased, make sure that the company that owns the car is reliable and has proof of meeting industry safety standards.

Drunk Driving

Awareness of this problem has grown significantly over the past years. However, it is still a huge problem. Not much needs to be said about how this type of accident happens, but it cannot be emphasised enough just how unnecessary, irresponsible and threatening this type of behaviour is. Drunk driving accidents tend to be very serious and too many people and families have been victimised, harmed and killed by drunk drivers.

Solution: Every single drunk driving accident can be avoided by taking a cab or riding with a designated driver.

Roadways

When the city or state fails to properly maintain the roads, it can cause, and has caused, traffic accidents. Common problems include uncleared roadway debris, faded road signs, potholes and improperly managed road construction.

Solution: Unfortunately, because the city is at fault for these accidents, there is little you can do around the time of the accident to prevent it. Do your best to stay vigilant, knowing that these types of accidents can and do happen and report problematic areas and situations when you see them.

If you do get involved in a nasty car wreck caused by someone else’s negligence, you need an experienced lawyer to help you navigate the system and stand up for your rights. Don’t be left in the dark and bring inconsiderate drivers to justice.