What Are the Top 7 Causes of Car Accidents?
Proving causation in a crash helps injury victims pursue the compensation they deserve. As such, it’s critical to recognize some of the main reasons that severe car accidents occur. Below, we will detail seven of the more common causes of car accidents and how they cause some severe harm, so you know what rights you have.
These 7 causes result in countless crashes each year:
- Speeding
- Drunk driving
- Distracted driving
- Fatigued driving
- Weather conditions
- Red light accidents
- Reckless driving
Call our firm today at (855) 906-3699 if you suffer an injury in an accident involving any of the above.
1. Speeding
Speeding is one of the most significant issues throughout the entire country. Of course, speed limits exist for a reason. Many drivers ignore those posted limits, leading to some of the most severe crashes and catastrophic injuries.
Speeding makes it much more difficult for a driver to stop, meaning that the speeding driver may not stop in time as they approach traffic in front of them. Typically, speeding causes rear-end collisions, but it can also cause drivers to lose control and crash.
2. Drunk Driving
As we know, drunk driving contributes to a fatal crash every 58 minutes. Unfortunately, drivers who choose to drink also choose reduced reaction time, troubles with decision-making, vision impairment, and other effects that can lead to some of the most devastating harm.
Some signs of drunk driving include:
- Swerving into other lanes and oncoming traffic
- Erratic braking and speeding up
- Drivers falling asleep at the wheel
- Driving with no headlights at night
3. Distracted Driving
For years, we’ve seen just how dangerous distracted driving is. Countless accidents occur because of texting and driving, eating, drinking, talking with passengers, reaching for items, and more. Distractions come in three forms: cognitive, visual, and manual. Any of these can make driving carefully more difficult. Texting and driving combine all three forms, and it’s one of the most dangerous actions.
4. Fatigued Driving
Drowsy drivers with few hours of sleep can be just as dangerous as a drunk driver. Much like intoxication, fatigue can significantly impair a driver’s decision-making, vision, cognitive abilities, and motor function. With fatigued driving, the signs are similar to drunk driving, and you may notice them start to doze off quickly.
5. Weather Conditions
While treacherous weather conditions can cause several accidents, drivers must also ensure they’re safe for road conditions. When rain falls, drivers must slow down. They must also maintain their vehicle to ensure it is safe to operate in dangerous weather conditions.
6. Red Light Accidents
Many accidents occur at red lights, and it’s often because of another underlying form of negligence. For instance, when someone speeds up to try and beat a red light, their speed is the leading cause of the crash. Similarly, distracted driving can cause a driver to run a red light, and the crossing drivers can suffer severe harm.
7. Reckless Driving
Reckless driving includes the above, but other actions can consist of aggressive driving, tailgating, honking, and other problems. Street racing is another prominent form of reckless driving that can cause severe harm as drivers try and cut in between traffic.
At BD&J, PC, we have earned a reputation using the experience you can trust. We are a skilled and dedicated team of Los Angeles car accident attorneys ready to stand by your side and help you through one of the most challenging times in your life. When you need help pursuing compensation and holding someone else accountable, we’ll be your advocates and partners to seek justice.
CALL OUR FIRM TODAY AT (855) 906-3699 FOR YOUR FREE CONSULTATION, AND SPEAK WITH A LAWYER ABOUT YOUR OPTIONS.
