Getting involved in a motor vehicle accident in Texas can leave you with injuries, hefty medical bills; a lawsuit; the inability to work; a wrecked car; and, of course, a dent in your bank account. Sometimes, the best way to avoid something from happening is by knowing why it happens or what causes it. Therefore, here are the common causes of car accidents in Texas.
Driving under the influence
Any substance that impairs your cognitive abilities is a great danger to your road safety and others’ as well. The common substance that causes the most car accidents in Texas is alcohol. It causes thousands of fatalities in the state every year.
Driving under the influence is illegal and comes with heavy penalties, including a jail term, huge fines, a driver’s license revocation and the installation of an ignition interlock device on your car. Sometimes, the court could order you to attend a lecture about alcohol abuse while driving. So it’s best just to totally avoid drinking when you know that you will be getting behind the wheel.
Driving while distracted
Beware of anything that can take your focus off the road. It could be your phone, other passengers, the radio and other auditory distractions, manual tasks, and daydreaming while driving. To be safe, limit all the things that could distract you in your car, including mental distractions.
Speeding
Texas drivers often speed because they are running late, it’s thrilling, it’s a habit, or it heightens their emotions. However, this act is precarious, and when a collision occurs, death is inevitable unless you are lucky enough to escape with devastating injuries.
Even if you are a perfect driver, it gets hard to control a car when other factors, like other drivers, rain, snow and bad roads, are present. Also, speeding will get you into trouble with the law.
Fatigue
Getting behind the wheel while tired is as dangerous as being under the influence of alcohol. Therefore, don’t drive when you notice any signs of fatigue, like constant yawning, heavy eyes, sleepiness, slow reflexes and weakness.
If you ever get involved in a car accident in Texas, be quick to seek help from your attorney, insurance and the hospital for any damages. It would be best if you tried to be safe at all times.
