Car accidents are serious events that could affect anyone in Texas. Knowing the most common causes of car accidents could possibly help you to avoid them.
Distracted driving
Distracted driving ranks as the top cause of car accidents. When a person uses a cell phone, eats, applies makeup, fiddles with GPS or even engages in conversation with passengers, it could cause their concentration to drift off of their driving. Distracted driving often involves three types of distraction as well: cognitive, visual or manual.
Speeding
Speeding is a dangerous form of aggressive driving that can significantly raise the risk of a car accident. It causes you to be unable to effectively control your vehicle as stopping is more difficult. Even safety gear in the car can malfunction at excessive speeds, which can lead to catastrophic injuries or worse.
Driving under the influence
When people who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs drive, everyone on the road is put at risk. These substances impair your judgment, reaction time, concentration and ability to safely control a vehicle. Even if a person has taken prescription medication that’s legally prescribed, it could lead to intoxication and a car accident.
Inclement weather
Certain types of weather conditions can cause car accidents. When the roads are slick from rain, sleet, ice or snow, it can easily cause drivers to lose control of their steering and braking ability. The vehicle could skid in wet conditions, which could lead to a crash.
Fatigue
Driving when you’re very tired is also dangerous. If a driver is fatigued, it’s on par with those who commit DUI. If you’re drowsy, the best thing to do is avoid driving.
Car accidents can cause serious personal injury. It’s your right to hold the at-fault driver accountable.