Car accidents can happen in an instant, but they are often caused by predictable factors that can be avoided. By understanding the most common causes of auto collisions, drivers can take steps to minimize risks and prevent accidents. If an unavoidable crash does occur due to another driver’s mistake, knowledgeable legal help can make a big difference in seeking recovery and compensation. Let’s get into the leading causes of car accidents.
Driver Error
By far the most common cause of car accidents is driver error. This includes behaviors like speeding, distraction, fatigue, impairment, and aggressive driving. Speeding is a major factor, with around a third of all fatal crashes involving driving over the speed limit. Distracted driving, including cell phone use and other activities that take the driver’s focus off the road, contributes to a high number of accidents each year.
Drowsy driving is also an issue, with the CDC reporting that around 1 in 25 adult drivers have admitted to falling asleep behind the wheel in the past 30 days. Impairment from alcohol and drugs impairs motor skills and judgment, making accidents much more likely.
Aggressive behaviors like tailgating and unsafe lane changes often result in collisions as well. If you are injured in an accident caused by another driver’s negligence, contacting reputable car accident attorneys can help protect your rights.
Road Conditions
Poor road conditions are another common cause of accidents. This includes issues like potholes, uneven pavement, lack of appropriate signage, poor lighting, and debris on the road. Stretches along some of the busiest streets have been plagued by massive potholes for years. Recently, millions of dollars from the American Rescue Plan have been allocated to repaving projects aimed at improving some of these hazardous roads.
Vehicle Malfunction
While less common than driver error and road conditions, mechanical failure or other vehicle malfunctions can also lead to accidents in some cases. The St. Louis car accident attorneys at Schultz & Myers state: “Critical systems like brakes, tires, and headlights wear out over time and can suddenly fail if maintenance is neglected. Undetected manufacturing defects can also cause vehicle malfunctions that result in loss of control. Drivers should be sure to bring their car in for regular tune-ups and maintenance to minimize the chances of a critical failure leading to an accident”.
Weather Conditions
In some areas, hazardous weather conditions like snow, ice, heavy rain, and fog contribute to a significant portion of accidents each year. Rain reduces traction and visibility, while snow and ice can lead to skidding or loss of control, especially when appropriate tires are not used. Fog also drastically reduces visibility on the roads. Drivers should reduce speeds, increase following distance, and take extra precautions when driving in adverse weather conditions.
Wildlife
Collisions between vehicles and wild animals are another common cause of accidents, especially in rural areas. Deer, moose, elk, and other large animals can bolt out in front of a car unexpectedly, and these crashes often lead to injuries or roadway fatalities. Nighttime driving is especially hazardous, as animals are harder to see in the dark. Reduced speed and increased alertness are required when traveling through regions with high wildlife populations.
Most accidents are caused by preventable human errors like speeding, distraction, and recklessness. However, other factors like weather, wildlife, and road conditions also contribute. Drivers must remain focused to avoid errors and drive defensively. But when a crash occurs due to another’s negligence, contacting an attorney is crucial to seek maximum compensation for your injuries and damages.
