Understanding the common causes of car accidents can help drivers become more aware of their surroundings and potentially prevent hazardous situations. What issues are a frequent source of roadway hazards?
1. Distracted driving
Distractions can come in many forms: texting, calling, using GPS, eating or even adjusting the radio. When a driver does not focus on the road, the likelihood of an accident increases significantly. As a result, distracted driving is one of the most frequent causes of road accidents, and nine people lose their lives every day as a result of driver distraction.
2. Speeding
Driving above the speed limit is a common cause of accidents that often results in severe injuries or fatalities. Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to steer safely around curves or objects in the roadway, extends the distance necessary to stop a vehicle, and increases the distance a vehicle travels while the driver reacts to a dangerous situation. More than one in four deadly crashes involves speeding.
3. Drunk driving
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a major cause of motor vehicle accidents. Alcohol impairs thinking, reasoning, and muscle coordination, all of which are essential in operating a vehicle safely. Despite strict laws and penalties, drunk driving continues to cause accidents and claim lives.
4. Reckless driving
Reckless driving includes changing lanes too quickly, acting aggressively on the road, tailgating and disregarding traffic signals. This behavior often leads to preventable accidents.
5. Poor weather
Bad weather conditions such as rain, snow, ice, and fog significantly affect the driving conditions. Slippery roads reduce a vehicle’s handling and increase the distance required to stop. Fog makes it difficult to see upcoming cars and obstacles on the road.
6. Driver fatigue
Especially common in long-distance drivers, fatigue can be just as dangerous as other forms of impaired driving. Fatigue decreases the driver’s awareness and slows reaction time, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
7. Vehicle issues
Faulty brakes, tire blowouts, steering issues and other mechanical failures can lead to serious accidents. While regular vehicle maintenance and recalls can prevent many of these accidents, they are still common sources of risk.
Drivers may face many of these risks every day. Understanding these common causes of car accidents can help them make safer choices on the road.
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