The United States is a very car centered society and unfortunately this means that car accidents are an unfortunate constant in our day to day lives. In 2024 the Utah Highway Safety Office recorded 59,437 car accidents. That is roughly 162 car accidents each day here in Utah!
As Utah courtroom attorneys we have represented our fair share of car accident victims and we know what causes car accidents. We believe that understanding the most common causes of car accidents can help us learn how to avoid them. In this article we will be uncovering the five most common causes of car accidents, and what you as a driver can do to avoid causing them.
Distracted Driving
We have never been as easily distracted as a society than right now. With nearly every person in the country owning a smartphone and social media apps deteriorating our attention spans, distractions are more prevalent than ever. The most common distractions while driving include texting, talking on the phone, using your cell phone, adjusting the GPS, or eating. All of these actions can directly take your attention off of the road, which can increase your chances of getting into a car accident significantly.
In order to avoid causing a car accident by distracted driving make sure to keep all of your focus on the road. If your car has hands free features like Apple car play or Bluetooth utilize them, as they are meant to take away the distraction of a smart phone. Make a rule for yourself that whenever you are behind the wheel you will not use your cell phone in order to keep all of your attention on the road. By taking these steps you can avoid causing a car accident from distracted driving.
Speeding
Did you know that speeding related car accidents killed over 11,000 people in 2021, and was a factor in nearly 30% of all traffic fatalities according to the NHTSA. Driving at excessive speeds is incredibly dangerous as it directly impacts your ability to react promptly to any unexpected situations. Speeding also extends the amount of time required to stop your vehicle and it also increases the likelihood of getting into a car accident.
While it may feel like speed limits are an arbitrary number they are set for a reason. The speed limit is a safe speed to travel where you will be able to react to the road, hazards, and drivers around you. When you get behind the wheel try to follow the speed limit to the best of your ability to avoid causing a speeding related accident.
Driving Under the Influence
Drunk driving or driving under the influence of any other substance is a serious danger to everyone on the road. In 2021 drunk drivers were responsible for over 13,000 traffic deaths, which is a 14% increase from the year prior. Driving while impaired severely reduces your reaction times, it impairs your judgment / decision making, diminishes your coordination, and makes an impaired driver a hazard to everyone around them.
If you are planning to go out for the night and use any substances make plans beforehand on travel accommodations. Utilize a designated driver, public transportation, or a rideshare service if you are under the influence, but above all do not get behind the wheel while inebriated. Drunk driving is incredibly dangerous and to avoid causing an accident never drive under the influence.
Weather Conditions
Weather conditions are another major cause of car accidents. Rain, snow, fog, or ice all pose serious challenges to drivers on the road. These weather conditions can make it difficult to drive as it can reduce visibility, make roads slippery, and cause hydroplaning. Adverse weather conditions are factors in numerous car accidents and should be taken very seriously. One of the most important steps you can take to stay safe driving in inclement weather is to learn how to drive in these situations. When it rains or snows take a moment to practice driving in these conditions and learn how your car handles and controls. Remember to reduce speeds on wet or snowy roads and only drive the speed that you feel comfortable driving in order to avoid causing a car accident in bad weather.
Drowsy Driving
The fifth leading cause of car accidents is often overlooked: drowsy driving. It is incredibly easy to neglect our sleep, and driving while you are tired or drowsy can be just as dangerous as texting while driving. Driving while feeling tired may not seem like a big deal, but it is. Drowsy driving can result in a loss of focus while you are behind the wheel, delayed reaction times, and worse decision making abilities.
To avoid causing an accident make sure that you are well rested if you are planning on driving for long periods of time. If you notice yourself getting tired or struggling to maintain focus pull to the side of the road and take a break.
If You Do Get Into an Accident
We use cars in our daily lives and it is crucial for each and every one of us to understand the most common causes of car accidents so that we can avoid causing them. By taking the steps listed above you will not only decrease your chances of causing an accident but you will also make the roads safer for everyone else.
However, your precautions can only do so much and you may be in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence. If you do get into an accident that is caused by someone else, then reach out to the courtroom attorneys at LifeLaw Trial Lawyers. Our team of the best courtroom attorneys in the state will fight to get you the compensation you deserve. Our attorneys will listen to your story and communicate with you through every step of the legal process. If you have been injured give us a call today for a free consultation and to discuss your next steps.
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