1. Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is dangerous because it takes your attention away from the road. This could be texting, eating, adjusting the radio, talking to passengers, or using navigation systems. Distracted driving has become a leading cause of car accidents in recent years as more than “eight people are either killed or injured daily in incidents reported as distraction-related crashes in the United States.” When all of your attention isn’t focused on the road and you’re paying attention to something else while you’re driving, this causes a lag in reaction time and your ability to accurately gauge speed, distance, and surrounding traffic is considerably diminished. Even a quick glance at the phone or trying to pick something up on the floor can lead to collisions that unfortunately could have severe or fatal consequences. Keeping your full attention on the road is the most important thing you can do to prevent accidents and be a defensive driver.
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2. Speeding
Many of us have been in a hurry to get somewhere, but exceeding the speed limit or going too fast for hazardous road conditions drastically reduces your reaction time, and increases the likelihood of a car crash and the severity of injuries due to the impact. When you’re driving at a high rate of speed around dangerous turns or during bad weather conditions, this makes it harder to navigate curves or sudden obstacles. Crashes that involve speeding are often far more dangerous since the force of impact grows exponentially as speed increases.
3. Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol isn’t just illegal, but could also be fatal. Impaired driving affects judgment, coordination, reaction time, and vision. Despite widespread awareness and severe legal consequences, impaired driving takes thousands of lives annually. Here are some tips on how you can reduce your risk of a drunk driving accident:
- If you plan to drink, make sure you have a safe ride home. Designate a sober driver, use a rideshare service, or call a taxi.
- Never get in a car with a driver who has been drinking or using drugs.
- Be aware that some prescription and over-the-counter medications can also impair your ability to drive safely so be sure to read the prescription label or consult with your doctor.
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4. Reckless Driving
Reckless driving isn’t just careless but dangerous, putting all drivers, passengers, and pedestrians at serious risk. From weaving between cars to tailgating to making unsafe lane changes and ignoring traffic laws, these are all high-risk behaviors of reckless driving. The consequences of reckless driving can be really serious; from steep fines, license suspension, and criminal liability, if the crash resulted in injury or death. It only takes a split-second mistake on the road to cause a life-changing accident.
5. Weather Conditions
Rain, snow, ice, fog, and high winds are all the perfect storm for hazardous driving conditions that lead to thousands of accidents each year. Wet roads reduce tire traction and increase stopping distances, while fog limits visibility, and snow and ice can make steering and braking unpredictable. A large number of weather-related crashes result from drivers failing to slow down or use caution when driving during bad weather. The best practices to stay safe while driving in hazardous weather-related conditions is to slow down and give yourself adequate space between your car and the one in front of you.
How to Stay Safe On the Road
While you can’t control other drivers, you can control how you drive. Put your phone away, follow speed limits, never drive impaired, and adjust your driving when the weather is bad and the road conditions are dangerous. Being aware of the most common causes of car accidents and practicing defensive driving, this can minimize risk of causing a crash.
Injured in a Car Accident? Postman Law Offers a Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, it’s important to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney at Postman Law. We have offices in Chicago, Minneapolis, Denver, and Cincinnati, but also handle car accident injury claims nationwide. Contact our personal injury attorneys at Postman Law today for a free, no-obligation consultation by filling out our online form or calling us at 844-POSTMAN to review your case, explain your legal options, and next steps.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific guidance regarding your situation, consult a licensed attorney.