The Most Common Causes of Collisions

Car accidents are an all-too-common occurrence on roads and highways, and unfortunately, they can lead to devastating consequences. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were over 38,000 fatalities by car accidents in the United States in 2020 alone. While some car accidents are beyond our control due to unforeseen circumstances, many of them are preventable and are caused by common factors. By understanding the most common causes of collisions and taking steps to mitigate these risks, you can help ensure your safety on the road.

Distracted Driving

According to the US Department of Transportation, distracted driving claimed the lives of 3,522 people in 2021. Distracted driving poses a significant threat on the road and can encompass any activity that diverts a driver’s attention away from driving, such as using a mobile phone, eating, adjusting the radio, or engaging in any other activities while driving.

To avoid distracted driving, it’s essential to focus on the road and eliminate any distractions. This means putting away your phone, eating before you get behind the wheel, and adjusting any controls before you start driving. If you must use your phone or GPS, use a hands-free system or pull over to a safe spot before using it.

Speeding

Speeding is a common cause of accidents and a major contributor to fatalities on the road. According to scientists at Insurify, 9.18% of drivers had a speeding ticket on their record in 2022. Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to react to changes on the road and increases the severity of an accident.

To avoid speeding, it’s important to obey the speed limit and adjust your driving to suit the weather, traffic conditions, and road layout. Remember that speed limits are not always the safest speed to travel and that you should slow down in areas where visibility is limited or there are lots of pedestrians, bicyclists, or children..

Drunk Driving

Drunk driving is a serious problem that can have tragic consequences. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there is an average of one person killed every 45 minutes in the United States due to drunk driving crashes, resulting in approximately 32 deaths per day. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can impair judgment, reaction time, and perception.

To avoid drunk driving, never get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol or drugs. If you plan to drink, designate a sober driver or use a ride-sharing service, taxi, or public transportation. If you suspect that another driver is impaired, keep a safe distance and call 911 to report them.  This will potentially help the drunk driver from being injured and maybe more importantly will potentially reduce the risk that driver will injure someone else.

Aggressive Driving

Aggressive driving, as defined by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), involves committing multiple moving traffic offenses in a manner that endangers other individuals or property. Common examples of aggressive driving include tailgating, excessive speeding, weaving in and out of traffic, and failing to yield.  Anyone that drives on the roads in Florida, especially I4, is keenly aware of aggressive driving.

To avoid aggressive driving, always be aware of other drivers on the road and avoid confrontations. If you encounter an aggressive driver, keep a safe distance and do not engage with them.  Unfortunately, we have seen many crashes occur because of an angry driver who makes the fateful decision to collide with another in their fit of anger.

Weather-Related Accidents

Weather can have a significant impact on driving conditions, and approximately 21% of vehicle crashes, or nearly 1,235,000, are weather-related, according to the US Department of Transportation. Rain, snow, ice, fog, and wind can all create hazardous driving conditions, reducing visibility and making roads slick and difficult to navigate.  In Florida, the torrential rains can cause many crashes.   We have spoken to many clients who have difficulty getting law enforcement to a crash scene during a rainstorm because the number of collisions occurring throughout the area.

To avoid weather-related accidents, slow down and increase your following distance in bad weather conditions. Use your headlights and windshield wipers to maintain visibility, and be cautious when driving over bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas, which are more likely to freeze or have areas where your vehicle can hydroplane in the rain.

The Importance of Safe Driving

No matter the reason for a collision, the repercussions can be severe. Collisions not only cause physical injuries but also emotional trauma, financial burden, and property damage. Collisions can lead to permanent disability or death.

Safe driving is not only essential for your own safety but also for the safety of others on the road. Practicing safe driving habits can significantly reduce the risk of collisions and ensure that you arrive at your destination safely.

To ensure safe driving, you should always follow traffic laws, wear a seatbelt, avoid distractions, maintain a safe following distance, and drive within the speed limit. It is also crucial to keep your vehicle well-maintained to prevent any mechanical failures.

If you have been involved in a collision caused by someone else’s negligence, seeking the advice of an experienced car accident attorney can help protect your legal rights and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your damages. Remember, safe driving is a responsibility we all share, and by practicing safe driving habits, we can help prevent collisions and keep our roads safe for everyone.

What to Do If You Are Involved in an Accident

If you find yourself involved in a car accident, seeking medical attention should be your top priority. Even if you feel fine initially, it’s important to get evaluated by a medical professional as some injuries may not present themselves immediately. You should also contact the police and file a report, which can help protect your legal rights and ensure that the accident is properly documented.

In the aftermath of a car accident, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney, especially if you have been injured. A knowledgeable attorney can guide you through the complex legal landscape, deal with insurance companies, and work to help you get fair compensation for your injuries and other damages. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted personal injury attorney for help during this difficult time.

Call Beers & Gordon for Help After a Collision

If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident caused by someone else’s negligence, don’t hesitate to contact Beers & Gordon. Our experienced team of personal injury attorneys can help you understand your legal rights and options and work to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and other damages. Remember, seeking legal advice as soon as possible after a car accident is crucial in protecting your rights and maximizing your chances of a successful outcome.