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Hundreds of thousands of traffic accidents occur yearly in the US. These range from mild fender benders to severe car accidents.
Auto collisions can happen because of bad weather and road conditions, driver negligence, faulty auto parts, and similar.
Schmidt & Clark lawyers have been handling car accident cases for two decades. Today, we will go over all the common causes of collisions.
Summary of Key Findings
- Car accidents happen for many reasons, but some are more common than others.
- If you are involved in a collision, following key steps can protect your health and legal rights.
- Hiring a personal injury attorney can help secure fair compensation.
Common Collision Causes
Traffic collisions occur for different reasons, but some causes are more frequent. Below are the leading contributors to road accidents.
1. Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is the number one cause of car crashes. According to the NHTSA, 3,142 people died in 2019 due to distracted driving. Research shows that 69 million drivers use their phones while driving every day.
Common Distractions:
- Texting and phone calls
- Adjusting the radio, GPS, or temperature
- Eating or drinking
- Talking to passengers
- Reaching for objects in the back seat
“Distracted driving is any activity that diverts attention from driving, including talking or texting on your phone, eating and drinking, talking to people in your vehicle, fiddling with the stereo, entertainment or navigation system — anything that takes your attention away from the task of safe driving.” The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
2. Drowsy Driving
One in 25 drivers falls asleep behind the wheel. Drowsy driving causes over 91,000 crashes annually, leading to around 800 deaths.
Causes of Drowsy Driving:
- Lack of sleep
- Medications with drowsy side effects
- Long-distance driving without breaks
Tip: If you feel drowsy, pull over and rest. A short nap can save lives.
3. Impaired Driving
Alcohol and drugs significantly impair a driver’s reflexes, coordination, and decision-making. DUI-related crashes cause 30 fatalities per day in the U.S.
Effects of Impaired Driving:
- Slower reaction times
- Poor coordination
- Blurred vision
- Decreased focus
Related Article: Drunk Driving Accident Lawsuit & Lawyer
4. Speeding
Excessive speed is responsible for 55% of car accidents in the U.S. The faster a vehicle moves, the harder it is to react and avoid a collision.
Types of Speeding Drivers:
- Situational: Occasionally speeds when in a rush
- Casual: Often exceeds limits for part of a trip
- Habitual: Regularly drives over speed limits
Tip: Driving at safe speeds protects you and others on the road.
5. Running a Red Light
Running a red light caused 846 deaths in 2019. Drivers often misjudge traffic speed or attempt to beat the light, leading to dangerous side collisions.
Tip: Always anticipate that cross-traffic might not stop in time.
6. Aggressive Driving
Aggressive behaviors like tailgating, weaving, and cutting off other drivers increase accident risks.
“Any unsafe driving behavior performed deliberately and with ill intention or disregard for safety can constitute aggressive driving.” AAA Exchange
Examples of Aggressive Driving:
- Tailgating
- Speeding
- Honking excessively
- Making rude gestures
Related Article: Everything to Know About Brake Checking
7. Bad Weather
Weather conditions like fog, rain, and snow reduce visibility and road traction.
Dangerous Weather Effects:
- Reduced visibility
- Slippery roads
- Slower reaction times
Tip: Drive cautiously and increase following distance in bad weather.
8. Defective Vehicle Parts
Mechanical failures such as brake failure or tire blowouts can cause serious accidents.
Common Defective Parts:
- Brakes
- Tires
- Airbags
- Steering systems
Tip: Regular vehicle maintenance helps prevent unexpected failures.
What to Do After a Car Collision
Step 1: Ensure Safety First
- Move to a safe location if possible.
- Turn on hazard lights.
Step 2: Call for Help
- Dial 911 for medical assistance if needed.
- Contact law enforcement to report the accident.
Step 3: Gather Important Information
- Exchange contact and insurance details.
- Collect witness statements and take photos of the scene.
Step 4: Seek Medical Attention
- Even if you feel fine, get checked for hidden injuries.
Step 5: Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
- An experienced lawyer can help protect your rights and secure compensation.
Related Article: Phantom Driver Accident Info
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FAQ
What is the most common cause of collisions?
Distracted driving is the leading cause, responsible for 8.5% of fatal crashes.
What is an example of a common collision type?
Single-vehicle crashes due to distraction, intoxication, or poor weather are common.
Can I sue if the collision was caused by a distracted driver?
Yes, if you can prove negligence, you may have a strong case for compensation.
Can I sue a company if the collision was caused by a commercial vehicle?
Yes, if the company failed to maintain the vehicle or if the driver was on duty at the time of the accident.
Get a Trustworthy Personal Injury Attorney
After being involved in a car accident, many drivers don’t know what legal action to take. There are many factors to consider, such as the cause of the collision, the person at-fault, insurance, driving at high speeds, and more.
Schmidt & Clark, LLP lawyers are car accident experts. They will explain your next steps and help you get the damages due to you.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.