The 5 Most Common Causes Of Automobile Accidents

The leading cause of death today is shockingly not due to medical reasons but because of automobile accidents. The advent of technology and greater emphasis on automobile safety should have reduced the number of accidents drastically, but rather the opposite has occurred.

Let’s analyze the top common causes of car accidents and steps that can be taken to avoid such accidents.

Distracted Drivers

Research has shown that more than a quarter of accidents are due to distracted drivers. According to traffic reports the major cause of driver distraction is mobile phone usage, while driving. Drivers get distracted while answering calls or messaging causing them to be unaware of road situations.

Other common driver distractions are:

  • Gawking at road accidents
  • Looking at scenery
  • Adjusting radio or cd player
  • Eating/Drinking
  • Other passengers

Driver Fatigue

Most accidents due to driver fatigue occur from 11 pm to 8 am when most people are used to sleeping. Symptoms of driver fatigue include drooping eyelids, yawning, misjudging traffic situations, feeling irritated, and lack of attention on road.

Driver must make sure he/she is well rested before getting back behind the wheel. Below are some tips to avoid fatigue related accidents.

  • Taking a break especially in long-distance driving
  • Getting good sleep before a long drive
  • Having a co-driver
  • Avoiding medications that might cause drowsiness

Drunk Driving

Another avoidable reason for car crashes is drunk driving. Loss of lives can be avoided, if drivers were more responsible towards their own lives and the safety of others on the road. The only way to prevent drunk driving is to not drink and drive. Governments have taken stringent measures to curb drunk driving, but there are still irresponsible drivers around.

Speeding

Speed limits are designed to limit the speed to appropriate levels. However, most drivers fail to recognize these signs. The most frequent culprits of speeding and reckless driving are male teens. Simply slowing down and obeying speed limits can go a long way in making roads safer.

Aggressive Driving

Anyone who operates an automobile in a rash, bold or pushy manner without any regard for the safety of others on road or pedestrians is called an aggressive driver. This includes behaviors such as:

  • Tailgating
  • Flashing lights at other drivers because of irritation
  • Verbal abuse or rude gestures
  • Disregarding traffic signals
  • Failure to yield to the right of way

If you ever become a victim of a car crash or accident due to the negligence of other drivers on the road, the initial steps are to be taken. First and foremost, analyze your injuries and contact an ambulance. If possible, receive first aid. The traffic police should be contacted next as their presence will be a major factor in your insurance claim. Also, attempt to gain the contact details of witnesses.

You can also contact an experienced solicitor at caraccidentlawyersperth.org. There is a free initial consultation provided for victims of car crashes. Furthermore, unless a case is successfully settled, there is no need to pay legal fees.