According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, over 38,000 people died in motor vehicle crashes in 2020. Understanding the most frequent causes of accidents can help drivers stay alert and avoid hazardous situations.
If you were in a car crash, it’s vital to know what caused it and who was responsible before you can get maximum compensation. Each type of crash is different and requires different types of documentation.
Our Texas car accident attorneys at Cesar Ornelas Injury Law will carefully investigate the cause of the crash and help you file a claim after a car accident that wasn’t your fault.
The Most Common Causes Of Auto Crashes
Distracted Driving
While distracted driving is the most preventable, it’s responsible for up to 9% of fatal crashes and is a leading accident factor today. Distracted driving reduces the driver’s reaction times and can cause devastating car accidents that cause serious injuries and even death.
Some of the activities that divert the driver’s attention from the road include:
- Texting or talking on the phone
- Adjusting music, GPS, etc.
- Eating, drinking, smoking
- Looking away from the road
Even brief distractions can result in tragedy. Eyes and focus must remain on driving at all times.
Drowsy Driving
Drowsiness impairs reaction times as much as alcohol intoxication. Fatigue is a common cause of heavy commercial truck accidents. A driver experiencing fatigue will often:
- Have difficulty focusing
- Experience frequent blinking, head nodding
- Frequently yawn, rub their eyes
- Wandering lanes or drifting
Skipping sleep before a long drive is risky. Take driving breaks when tiredness sets in.
Speeding
Up to 28% of crash deaths involve speeding. Exceeding speed limits or driving too fast for conditions is dangerous because:
- Longer stopping distances
- Decreased ability to steer safely
- Loss of control around curves
- Increased crash severity
Obey speed limits and adjust for road conditions.
Impaired Driving
According to NHTSA, every day, 37 people die from alcohol-related crashes in the US. Beyond drunk driving, drug use, and drowsy driving also cause impairment.
Warning signs include:
- Weaving or swerving
- Delayed braking reaction times
- Driving off the road or lane deviations
Never drive while intoxicated or ride with an impaired driver.
Bad Weather
Another top cause of car accidents is weather-influenced road conditions. Often, the main question is how do you collect compensation for bad weather? While you cannot sue Mother Nature, the driver that rear-ends another is responsible.
All drivers have a duty of care when driving in bad weather. They should be extra careful to avoid accidents or they’ll be held responsible.
Aggressive Driving
Aggressive behaviors like speeding, tailgating, unsafe passing, running red lights, road rage, and improper merges cause 56% of fatal accidents.
Patience and courtesy prevent accidents. Stay alert on the road by minimizing distractions, getting adequate rest, following speed limits, driving sober, and maintaining composure at all times. Remember defensive driving skills protect more than just yourself.
Contact a Texas Auto Accident Attorney Today
If you’ve been injured in a crash caused by a negligent driver, you may be eligible for compensation. Don’t wait. Contact our car accident attorneys at Cesar Ornelas Injury Law for experienced legal representation and to file your claim.
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