Common Causes of Car Accidents and How to Avoid Them

On average, there are an estimated six million car accidents in the US every year. While some accidents are out of the driver’s control and unavoidable, there are many occurrences when drivers could have avoided a collision. Let’s explore the most common causes of car accidents and what can be done to avoid them when this is within our control.

Distractions

Distractions are everywhere, and when driving, you need to avoid them as much as possible. The most common distractions on the road include mobile phones, eating, and drinking, all of which are unnecessary behind the wheel. In the US, texting and driving is illegal in 48 states, and 24 states have banned the use of any handheld devices while driving. With the availability of hands-free and Bluetooth kits, and speech-to-text, there is no need to get distracted by a mobile phone while driving. 

Speeding

Speeding is one of the leading causes of car accidents. Drivers who speed increase their chances of having an accident and reduce their reaction time in an emergency. To reduce the chances of a collision, always obey speed limits and adjust your vehicle speed according to road conditions or obstacles. Some areas may have temporary speed designations; look out for these temporary postings and adhere to them. 

Drunk Driving

Driving under the influence, whether it’s drugs or alcohol, is strictly prohibited. Drugs and alcohol severely impair our ability to operate a motor vehicle and maintain awareness of our surroundings. If you are under the influence, rather arrange alternative transport or ask a sober friend to drive you home. 

Driving Under The Influence Of Medication

Like alcohol and drugs, certain prescription medications can drastically impact our alertness and awareness. Medications that make you drowsy, impair concentration, or your cognitive ability should not be taken before driving. If you need to travel, arrange alternative transport or a driver who can take you from place to place. 

Reckless Driving

Reckless driving, such as abrupt lane changes, not using your turning signals, and general aggressive maneuvers, can all lead to accidents as they show disregard for motorists around you. Excessive honking, flashing of headlights, and gesturing at other drivers may also be regarded as reckless, as they distract you from driving safely. Always drive defensively by trying to anticipate potential hazards, stay alert, use your turn signals, and use mirrors. This behavior can protect you and other road users from incidents. 

Weather

Weather conditions can rapidly change road conditions. Rain, snow, and ice can make a road surface very slippery, reducing your control over your vehicle. In adverse weather conditions, reducing your speed and increasing your following distance is important. This makes stopping suddenly far safer for everyone. 

Running Red Lights or Stop Signs

Motorists who run red lights or stop signs risk the lives of other motorists and their own. Approach intersections with caution; you should come to a complete stop at stop signs and red lights to avoid unwanted collisions. 

Fatigue

According to the National Safety Council, exhaustion and drowsiness are as dangerous as driving under the influence. Driving when fatigued can impair reaction time, awareness of surroundings, and alertness to potential hazards. Getting sufficient rest before driving is important, particularly before long trips. You should also avoid driving if you’re tired.  

Road Conditions

Poorly maintained roads can impact vehicles, causing unforeseen damage. This can lead to loss of control of the vehicle and accidents. Stay attentive to the road conditions and report any hazards that you may come across. 

Inexperienced Drivers

Less experienced drivers can pose a risk to other road users. Inexperienced drivers should opt for additional driving lessons or courses that will give them more confidence and skills when driving. Other road users should be patient with newer drivers and allow them space to use the road without additional intimidation and pressure. 

Tailgating

Following the driver ahead of you too closely is incredibly dangerous. It minimizes your reaction time to almost zero if the vehicle in front of you suddenly slams on the brakes. Tailgating can also obscure your vision of the road ahead, impeding your ability to anticipate any obstacle or situation. 

Maintain a safe following distance and keep a three-second gap to the car ahead of you. You can measure this by choosing a sign, pole, or tree as a marker, counting to three, or keeping at least one car length distance between you. 

Failure To Yield

Knowing which vehicle has the right of way can help to avoid a collision. Always follow yield signs and ensure you know the right-of-way rules. You should always yield to the car that arrives at an intersection first or is furthest to the right.

Mechanical Issues

Vehicle maintenance is critical to road safety. You need to ensure you have the right tires for your vehicle and the conditions you’re driving in, and your suspension should be maintained. Your vehicle should be regularly serviced to avoid any unforeseen mechanical issues. Check that your headlights, brake lights, and turning signals are all in working order. This can help mitigate any unforeseen issues or hazards when you’re on the road. 

Aggressive Driving

Aggressive driving behavior can often lead to speeding, tailgating other vehicles, and weaving between lanes. Impatience can become a serious issue as drivers pressure other vehicles into quick but often poor decision-making. In extreme cases of aggressive driving, drivers can display acts of rage by cutting off other drivers. This type of aggressive and erratic behavior leads to accidents. 

Practice patience on the road. Try to remain calm in situations and focus on safety above all. A composed driver is a safe driver.

Poor Visibility

Weather conditions can impact visibility. Foggy or misty conditions can make it hard to see, and low light and nighttime conditions can also play havoc on visibility. Poor visibility can easily lead to accidents. Use your headlights or fog lights in the appropriate conditions and reduce your speed and following distance accordingly. 

A Last Word

Car accidents can cost lives, hospital bills, and livelihoods. If you cause an accident you may also be sued by a car accident lawyer who ensures the other party gets fair compensation for their losses. However, all this can often be avoided if you remain vigilant, focused, and aware of your surroundings. 

Follow these tips every time you get behind the wheel to avoid being a statistic.