Cars are a useful luxury that gets us from point A to point B, allowing us to commute to work, visit our friends and loved ones, and embark on all types of experiences. However, cars can also be a danger and cause devastating injuries to drivers and others on the road. One of the leading causes of car accidents worldwide is driver error. It contributes significantly to the statistics of road accidents each year. Learn more about the impact of driver errors, their causes, and the steps you can take to prevent them.
What Causes Most Car Accidents?
Just last year alone, almost 41,000 people were killed as a result of accidents on the road. Statistics consistently show that a majority of crashes are caused by some sort of driver error. These encompass a wide range of behaviors and actions that compromise safety on the road and take the stage compared to other causes of accidents such as bad weather or vehicle defects.
Which Driver Error Causes the Biggest Problems?
Several driver errors stand out as major contributors to car accidents. These include:
- Distracted Driving: This includes texting, talking on the phone, eating, or any other activity that takes attention away from driving.
- Speeding: Driving above the speed limit or not accounting for road conditions reduces reaction time and increases the severity of accidents.
- Drunk Driving: Operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or certain medications can impair judgment, coordination, and reaction time.
- Reckless Driving: This accounts for aggressive behaviors such as tailgating, unsafe passing, and ignoring traffic signs.
How to Avoid Driving Errors
To minimize the risk of causing or being involved in a car accident due to driver error, it’s important to remain alert and cautious at all times.
- Focus on driving when you’re driving. Staying attentive and avoiding distractions can minimize accidents. Refrain from texting and stay off of your phone. This not only protects other drivers but protects you by keeping you aware of your surroundings and capable of anticipating potential accidents.
- Obey traffic laws. Follow posted speed limits, stop at red lights and stop signs, and yield the right-of-way as required.
- Drive sober. Never drive under the influence. Substances like alcohol, drugs, and certain medications can severely impair your ability to drive safely.
- Stay calm and patient. Avoid aggressive driving behaviors that can endanger you and those around you. Maintain safe distances from other vehicles and keep your cool if those around you are driving recklessly.
What to Do After a Car Accident
If you find yourself in a car accident despite taking precautions, there are several steps you can take to protect yourself and ensure you receive compensation for any damages as a result of the accident.
Immediately following an accident, assess yourself and others for injuries and seek medical attention. Contact the authorities who will secure the scene of the accident and write up a report that can be used later for details regarding the crash. Exchange information with others at the scene and, if it is safe to do so, take pictures and videos to document the accident. Learn more about what to do after a car accident here.
To recover damages from a car accident caused by another driver, you’ll likely need to file an insurance claim. Filing a claim involves gathering evidence and notifying the insurance provider, providing them with necessary information about the accident. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you with this process. Learn more about filing a claim after a car accident here.
Proving fault after a car accident may be a top concern for you following an accident. This typically involves demonstrating that the other driver’s negligent actions directly led to the accident. An attorney can assist you with gathering information, negotiating, and representing you in court if necessary. Learn more about proving fault following a car accident here.
Contact DM Injury Law for Help with Your Case
If you’ve been injured in a car accident due to another driver’s error, the team at DM Injury Law is ready to advocate for your rights. We specialize in personal injury cases and have a track record of helping accident victims recover fair compensation for their injuries and damages.
Contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll assess your case, explain your options, and work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Don’t face the aftermath of a car accident alone- let our team support you through every step of the process.