Common Causes of Auto Accidents

The statistics regarding auto accidents in the U.S. paint a grim picture:

• 43,642 people were killed in motor vehicle accidents in 2006, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
  
  
• Close to 115 people die each day as the result of auto accidents.
  
  
• Approximately 3 million people are injured in car crashes each year, and more than 2 million of those injuries are permanent.
  
  

Figures like these tell the story of a national tragedy, one made even more tragic by the fact that most accidents are caused by preventable behaviors and circumstances. Extra caution and defensive driving could help to limit the number and severity of accidents, even when conditions beyond human control (such as bad weather) are present. Following are some of the most common causes of traffic accidents in the nation today.

• Poor driving habits: Road rage is a clear, extreme example of poor driving habits. Driver inattention, failure to obey traffic signs and signals, speeding, and careless passing are other examples of risky behaviors.
  
  
• Driver impairment: Alcohol intoxication and the use of narcotics are obvious causes of driver impairment. Driver fatigue and falling asleep, illness, poor eyesight, and use of over-the-counter or prescription medications can also limit a driver's ability to focus on the road.
  
  
• Environmental conditions: Bad weather-rain, snow, ice or fog-can quickly create a treacherous environment for any driver.
  
  
• Driver distractions: Using a cell phone, changing the radio station, eating, drinking or grooming in the car, and talking with passengers are some of the more common distractions that contribute to car accidents. In a 4,000-pound vehicle traveling at 50 MPH, any distraction is a potential disaster.
  
  
• Equipment failure: Vehicle design flaws, mechanical failure and poor maintenance can lead to rollover accidents, flat tires or tire blowouts, brake failure, axle failure, and loss of control.
  
  
• Road conditions: Foreign obstacles or substances on the road surface, poor signage or markings, and potholes are some of the road hazards that contribute to traffic accidents.
  
  

With so many potential hazards, a driver's best defense is to remain focused, obey traffic laws and signals, and drive a properly maintained vehicle.

Have You Been Hurt in a Car Accident?

If you or someone you love has been injured in an auto accident, you may be entitled to collect damages from the responsible party or parties. The law limits the amount of time you have to file suit after being injured, and failure to act quickly could affect your ability to file a claim. Don't delay-Call 1-888-562-5036 today for a free, no-obligation consultation on your case.