Car accidents are a major concern for many people, as they can lead to serious injuries and even death. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2019, there were 38,824 fatalities from motor vehicle crashes in the United States alone. Understanding the reasons behind car accidents is crucial to preventing them from happening. The victims of car accidents can take action against the negligent party by filing a personal injury claim. The victims should speak with a lawyer to know more about the benefits of filing a personal injury claim.
In this article, we will discuss the top 5 reasons for car accidents according to statistics and provide tips on how to prevent them so you can know more about car accident prevention.
- Distracted Driving
One of the leading causes of car accidents is distracted driving. This refers to any activity that takes a driver’s attention away from the road, such as using a cell phone, eating, or applying makeup. According to the NHTSA, distraction is a factor in 10% of all fatal crashes and 17% of crashes resulting in injuries. In addition, it is estimated that 660,000 drivers use their cell phones while driving each day. In order to prevent distracted driving, it is important to put your phone away and out of reach while driving and to avoid other distractions such as eating or applying makeup.
- Driving Under the Influence
Another major cause of car accidents is driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. According to the NHTSA, in 2019, 29% of all fatal crashes involved a driver with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. This equates to over 10,000 deaths in the United States alone. To prevent driving under the influence, planning and arranging for a designated driver or another form of transportation if you plan to drink is important.
- Speeding
Speeding is another major contributor to car accidents. According to the NHTSA, in 2019, 9,378 people were killed in speed-related crashes. This equates to 26% of all fatal crashes that year. In addition, speeding can also increase the severity of injuries in the event of a crash. To prevent speeding, it is important to obey posted speed limits and to allow extra time for travel in order to avoid feeling rushed.
- Reckless Driving
Reckless driving includes behaviors such as tailgating, swerving, and running red lights. These actions can lead to serious accidents, and in 2019, reckless driving was a factor in 7% of all fatal crashes. To prevent reckless driving, it is important to practice defensive driving and maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles.
- Weather Conditions
Poor weather conditions such as rain, snow, and fog can make it difficult for drivers to see and control their vehicles, leading to accidents. According to the NHTSA, in 2019, weather conditions were a factor in 11% of all fatal crashes. To prevent accidents caused by poor weather conditions, it is important to slow down and increase the following distance and ensure your vehicle’s headlights, brakes, and tires are in good condition.
Conclusion
Car accidents are a serious concern, and understanding the reasons behind them is crucial in order to prevent them from happening. According to statistics, the top 5 reasons for car accidents are distracted driving, driving under the influence, speeding, reckless driving, and weather conditions. By being aware of these risks and taking steps to avoid them, we can all do our part to make the roads safer for everyone. Remember to practice defensive driving, obey traffic laws, maintain your vehicle, and avoid distractions and driving under the influence.
