Car accidents occur for a wide variety of reasons. But, no matter why they happen, one thing is clear: They’re becoming more common. Fatal accidents, in particular, are on the rise.
Why is this? It’s important to consider exactly why accidents are happening so that you can work on being an effective defensive driver and avoiding these hazards on the road. Nothing guarantees you won’t be involved in a crash caused by someone else, but knowing why these accidents happen can help.
10 common reasons
To help you on your quest to be a safe driver, here are 10 of the top reasons for accidents in the United States:
- Distracted driving: The use of mobile phones, eating, adjusting music or engaging in other activities diverts a driver’s attention from the road, leading to accidents.
- Speeding: Exceeding the posted speed limit is problematic for two reasons. First, it reduces reaction times. Unexpected events are more likely to cause accidents. Second, it can cause a driver to lose control.
- Drunk driving: People should never operate a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs – even if they are prescription drugs. These substances can impair judgment, hinder coordination and reduce reaction times.
- Reckless driving: Aggressive behaviors such as tailgating, sudden lane changes or running red lights endanger other drivers and can result in collisions.
- Fatigue: Driving while excessively tired or drowsy can lead to reduced alertness, delayed reactions and even falling asleep at the wheel, causing accidents.
- Tailgating: Following another vehicle too closely does not provide sufficient stopping distance, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions.
- Running stop signs or red lights: Failure to obey traffic signals and signs can result in T-bone accidents or collisions at intersections.
- Inexperience: Lack of experience, inadequate driving skills and poor decision-making make novice drivers more prone to accidents.
- Improper lane changes: Failure to check blind spots, using turn signals or misjudging the distance and speed of other vehicles can cause accidents while changing lanes.
- Pedestrian or cyclist negligence: Pedestrians or cyclists who are not following traffic rules, crossing outside designated areas or are not paying attention to vehicles can lead to accidents.
Understanding the reasons behind car accidents can help you stay safe each day, but accidents will, unfortunately, always happen. If you are injured in an accident caused by another driver, seek legal guidance to better understand your rights and options.