There are over 6 million car accidents in the United States every year. That translates into a car accident once every 14 seconds. Out of those 6 million accidents, over 2 million result in serious injury or death. The really sad part is that the majority of those accidents could have been prevented.
We understand that a
car accident can be upsetting and scary. Below is a list of the most common causes of
auto accidents in the United States.
Distracted Drivers
A recent study by Prevention magazine showed that driving while talking on a cell phone more than quadruples the risk of being involved in a car accident.
There are many other distractions such as looking at the scenery, gawking at another accident, adjusting the radio, attending to other passengers or children, and reading a newspaper, book, or other document.
Driver Fatigue
Tired drivers cause over 100,000 accidents per year in the United States. According to the U.S. National Traffic Safety Administration, the risk of being involved in a car accident with a drowsy driver increase dramatically between the hours of 11 p.m. to 8 a.m. with the hours of noon to 2 p.m. coming in a close second.
When you’re on the road watch for vehicles that wander over the road lines and/or vary their speed for no apparent reason.
Drunk Driving
Over 16,000 people are killed in alcohol related accidents every year on the highways and byways of American roads. Drunk drivers are responsible for almost 30 percent of all fatal car accidents during the week, and approximately 53 percent of all fatal car accidents on the weekends.
Speeding
Speeding is a double-edged sword. Not only does it reduce the amount of time necessary to avoid a crash, but also increases the risk of serious injury or death in a car accident.
Aggressive Driving
Anyone who drives a car in a selfish, bold, or pushy manner without regard to the safety of others can be considered an aggressive driver. Aggressive drivers exhibit such behaviors as tailgating, rude gestures, verbal abuse, changing lanes frequently and with no regard for safety, failure to yield the right of way, and preventing another driver from moving their vehicle.
If you notice an aggressive driver on the roads, and feel the situation is serious, call 911 to report the driver to the police.
Weather
Rain, hailstorms, snowstorms, and ice make driving difficult and are the cause of many accidents in the United States. To try to avoid accidents in bad driving conditions, leave more room between you and the car in front of you and slow down. If you have to drive in inclement weather, take your time and avoid anything that could distract you from driving.
To learn more about your legal rights in a motor vehicle accident or other serious injury, it is important to speak with skilled
truck accident and motorcycle accident lawyers, a
product liability attorney, a
medical malpractice lawyer, a
wrongful death attorney, or
Alabama personal injury attorney to discuss the details of your case.