Common Causes of Car Accidents

Car accidents are one of the most frequent causes of death in the United States. Even less serious accidents can be traumatizing to those involved, or come with high price tags in the form of medical bills and car repairs. The knowledge of such jarring information should make drivers take every precaution to be safe on the roads, but we know that accidents will still happen. That being said, knowing the most common causes of car accidents can help you avoid becoming a victim of one.

What Are the Most Common Causes of Car Accidents?

You have to be diligent about watching everything that is going on during your drive in order to maintain control. Accidents on the road always happen for a reason, and if you’re not prepared for them, there can be serious consequences. Some of the most common reasons that car wrecks occur include the following:

• Speeding– This has been one of the prevailing causes of car accidents for many years. Driving at excessive speeds makes the car harder to control and reduces the effectiveness of your vehicle’s safety features. There’s also a risk of danger when a driver is going the legal speed limit, but still too fast for the weather or road conditions.
• Drunk Driving– Alcohol is another of biggest contributors to car accidents in the U.S. Driving under the influence of alcohol, or any other drug, is not only illegal, but it is also dangerous, irresponsible, and oftentimes, deadly. Operating a vehicle when impaired by the effects of alcohol hinders one’s decision-making abilities and slows a driver’s response time. This leaves alcohol-impaired drivers open to making reckless driving decisions.
• Distractions– Distracted driving is the number one causes of car accidents. There are distractions everywhere, and drivers today have to make a conscious choice to ignore them. From advertisements on the road to the passengers in one’s own car, there will always be something with the potential to tempt you to take your eyes off the road. One of the biggest temptations of modern times is the cell phone. Using this device for calls distracts drivers from their primary job in the car. Texting while driving is even worse, as the texter’s eyes aren’t even on the road anymore. Even if just for a second, texting and driving causes accidents that can range from minor to fatal.
• Red light violations– Rushing to make that light might just cause more harm than good. Red light accidents are among the most common forms of car accidents. It’s important to use good judgement when approaching a traffic light at an intersection, otherwise drivers risk causing or being a victim of an accident.
• Drowsy driving– Drowsy driving happens when drivers have not had enough sleep or are fatigued for other reasons. Falling asleep at the wheel is the more extreme version of this issue, and it is dangerous for obvious reasons. However, even simply being very tired can negatively affect a driver’s thoughts and decision-making processes, making them less able to pay attention to their surroundings. Reaction times are also slowed when drivers are drowsy driving. All of these factors contribute to the accidents happening on the road.
• Weather – Driving in bad weather conditions can make it hard for drivers to adequately see where they’re traveling. Follow all of the rules for driving in rain, hail, or heavy fog in order to maintain control over your vehicle and to avoid accidents.

Car Accident Attorneys Serving Louisiana

If you have been in an accident, it is best to get an experienced Louisiana personal injury attorney right away. The team at Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys has fought and won for countless clients. We can handle or counsel you on all of the legal issues related to the car accident, including dealings with insurance companies.

Our car accident attorneys have faced many insurance companies, and we understand that they can be frustrating to deal with. After an accident, you shouldn’t have to battle with underhanded insurance agencies. Let our auto accident lawyers at Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys do the hard work for you.

Additionally, if you are a victim of a car wreck and have been seriously injured, contact our injury lawyers as soon as possible. We represent those from Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Alexandria, Shreveport, Ascension, Livingston, Zachary, Hammond, Lake Charles and Monroe, and we’re dedicated to representing you to the best of our abilities to provide the best possible outcome. This could include compensation for personal injuries or damages relating to your car accident. Call us today at 888.501.7888 for a FREE consultation!

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