Cars bring comfort, speed, and convenience to daily transportation, but they are also responsible for the death and pain of hundreds of car accident victims annually. According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 32,788 people lost their lives in auto accidents last year. Here, we will look at the top 5 causes of car accidents and the importance of consulting a Grand Junction Auto Accident Lawyer after a crash.
1. Distracted Driving
According to the American Automobile Association’s Traffic Safety Division, an estimated 25-50% of all auto accidents can be attributed to distracted driving. Distracted driving accidents happen when a driver engages in the following activities while driving:
- Texting
- Talking on the phone
- Reading a map, newspaper, or book
- Looking away from the road
- Engaging with children or passengers
- Adjusting the radio or cassette player
2. Intoxicated Driving
Driving while under the influence has been one of the common causes of road accidents in the United States. According to the NHTSA, intoxicated drivers accounted for about 32 percent of all traffic offenses in the United States in a given year. If you are intoxicated, call a friend or look for somewhere to stay for the night rather than drive home intoxicated.
3. Speeding
Over the years, speeding has been a major traffic violation in the United States. Most drivers do not know that the faster you drive your car, the less control you have over it, especially if you suddenly encounter an unexpected situation on the road. The most effective way to avoid speeding accidents is to always drive within the legal speed limits.
4. Aggressive Driving
Aggressive driving or driving in a manner that shows disregard for the safety of others is dangerous driving behavior that has led to countless accidents. Common aggressive driving activities include:
- Illegal lane changes
- Failure to yield
- Tailgating
- Following at a dangerous distance
- Failure to obey traffic signals
If you encounter an aggressive driver, try to keep your distance and avoid interacting with them through words or gestures. Make a safe lane change and if the driver pursues you, drive to the nearest police station or call 911 and report the matter.
5. Bad Weather
Bad weather conditions such as heavy snow, rain, ice, high winds, hail, and fog can make driving more cumbersome. If you, unfortunately, face such conditions, you should observe the speed limit and maintain a safe space between you and the next vehicle. Drive only at the speed the current conditions allow and consider making a stop if the weather escalates.
Talk to a Grand Junction Auto Accident Lawyer Today
No matter how carefully you drive, car accidents are inevitable and a fact of life. Nonetheless, you can take precautions to protect yourself from these top 5 causes of car accidents, and in turn, significantly increase your chances of safety and survival.
Cimarron Ridge Legal Group attorneys have a combined experience of over 70 years in dealing with auto accidents. If you have been injured in a car accident in Colorado, contact our offices by booking a consultation online or calling us at (970) 644-5194 to talk to a Grand Junction Auto Accident Lawyer.
We guarantee you personalized representation and great results.