The Most Common Causes of Car Accidents (and What You Can Do to Avoid Them)

Millions of people are injured and tens of thousands of people die in road accidents every year, in the United States alone. So, it’s crucial that you always remember to drive safely and follow the rules of the road.

Here’s a look at some of the most common car accident causes and what you can do to avoid being involved in such accidents.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving can involve things like chatting to passengers, eating a snack, lighting a cigarette, applying makeup, or using your cell phone while in the act of driving.

It’s one of the leading causes of car accidents in the United States and in other countries because it results in drivers not fully focusing on the road.

When drivers are distracted, accidents are much more likely to happen; putting yourself, your passengers, other drivers, and pedestrians in danger.

To avoid being injured in a car accident that occurs from distracted driving, simply never multitask when you drive.

Speeding

Just because we all see people speed, it doesn’t mean we should do it. Speeding is one of the most common causes of car accidents in the U.S. and around the world.

When you travel faster than the speed limit, you not only break the law, you also increase the risk of being involved in an accident. That’s because the faster you drive, the slower your reaction time becomes.

Traveling at even a little faster than the speed limit will increase your chances of being involved in a road accident. So, to avoid such an accident, simply always stick to the speed limit.

If you’re running late for an important appointment, it’s better to be late than to be seriously injured or cause injuries or fatalities to others.

Drunk Driving

Never drink and drive.

If you do, your senses and cognitive functions will be dulled, your reaction times will be slower, and your decision-making abilities will be compromised.

You simply cannot function and focus properly when driving a car after you have drunk more alcohol than the legal limit.

To avoid accidents that are caused by driving under the influence of alcohol, never get behind the wheel after you have had too much to drink.

If you are planning on going out, have a designated driver who does not drink.

In other scenarios where you find yourself having too much to drink, leave your car where it is and use public transport or get a cab.

Of course, you should also never drive while under the influence of drugs.

Reckless Driving

Some drivers seem to think they’re in the Indy 500.

Things like weaving in and out of traffic, tailgating, and cutting off drivers are all examples of reckless driving.

To avoid being involved in an accident that’s caused by reckless driving, make sure you spot any reckless drivers early and give them space.

Of course, you should also never drive recklessly yourself.

Bad Weather

While the most common causes of car accidents are a result of human behavior, don’t underestimate just how much inclement weather can contribute to car accidents.

Conditions like rain, snow, ice, and fog can create very hazardous conditions for driving.

If you find yourself driving in such conditions, you need to drive slower and be extra alert.

And if you do not have to drive, avoid driving in bad weather conditions altogether.

Get into a habit of finding out what the weather forecast is for any day you intend to drive so that you can be prepared.