Top 10 Reasons for a Car Accident

Millions of car accidents occur each year and those who suffer severe injuries have the legal right to file a claim to pursue compensation for their injuries. However, one part of filing a claim means proving that the other driver did something to cause the crash. In other words, as a claimant, you have to prove that the other driver was at-fault. Here is a detailed look at the top 10 reasons for a car accident and what you can look out for when you’re driving on the road.

These are top ten most common car accident causes:

1. Distracted driving
2. Speeding
3. Drunk driving
4. Running traffic signals
5. Recklessness
6. Drowsy driving
7. Aggressive driving
8. Weather conditions
9. Vehicle defects
10. Road hazards

1. Distracted Driving

Distracted driving comes in three different forms: visual, manual, and cognitive. When a driver looks away from the road, such as at their phone or a passenger, they’re visually distracted. When removing at least one hand from the steering wheel it is a manual distraction. If a driver loses focus, they are cognitively distracted.The most common form of distracted driving is cell phone use. Texting and driving combine all three forms of distracted driving to make it one of the most dangerous actions on the road.

2. Speeding

Countless drivers don’t abide by the posted speed limits. People are in a hurry for one reason or another and they sometimes exceed 80, 90, and 100 miles per hour. Unfortunately, speeding means a far reduced reaction time. If you’re driving too fast, it becomes much more difficult to stop when approaching traffic. It’s also easy to lose control of your vehicle if you’re speeding.

3. Drunk Driving

Drunk driving accidents lead to roughly 30 deaths each day. The numbers have lessened over the years, but there’s still a significant number of drivers who get behind the wheel of a car after drinking too much alcohol. Drinking and driving reduces depth perception, cognitive abilities, and decision-making.
If you see a driver swerving or braking for no reason, it could indicate intoxication, and it’s best to stay clear of that vehicle and call 911.

4. Running Traffic Signals

Stop signs and traffic lights exist for a reason, they are meant to keep people safe. Unfortunately, when drivers don’t abide by the laws of the road, they can cause some of the most catastrophic harm. A driver may run a red light or stop sign and the other vehicles who follow the laws are at risk because of it.

5. Recklessness

While all of the above are considered reckless actions, there are other things that people can do that can cause accidents. For instance, recklessness can include swerving through traffic at high rates of speed. Recklessness can also include other actions, such as cutting other drivers off or tailgating.

6. Drowsy Driving

Did you know that missing just a few hours of sleep is equivalent to driving while intoxicated? While drowsy driving was long thought to be involved in only 1-3% of accidents, a more recent study revealed the numbers to be closer to 8-9%, showing just how dangerous it can be to drive while tired.

7. Aggressive Driving

Aggressive driving can include tailgating and purposely cutting off another driver. However, the driver can display aggressiveness by honking their horns excessively, trying to get another driver’s attention by yelling, or swerving closer to another vehicle.

8. Weather Conditions

Severe weather conditions can create dangers on the road. Luckily we don’t have to deal with snow and ice on our roadways in Central Florida, but we do have bad thunderstorms which can produce difficult driving conditions. However, bad weather doesn’t always excuse negligence so it’s essential for drivers to maintain their vehicles to avoid some of the common issues that can arise because of extreme weather. If the weather is severe, it might be best to pull off the road in a safe spot until the weather gets better.

9. Vehicle Defects

Vehicle defects can include a wide range of issues, including the following:

• Defective brakes
• Defective airbags
• Defective seat belts
• Defective tires
• Defective steering system

If a vehicle is defective, liability can fall on the manufacturer of the product. For instance, if a vehicle is approaching you in traffic and they don’t stop because their brakes are defective, you may have legal action against the manufacturer for their failed product. However, it could also be an issue involving lack of maintenance so you want to have legal counsel on your side to recognize your options.

10. Road Hazards

Unfortunately, we know that city, county and state roads should receive maintenance, but it doesn’t always happen as quickly as it should. Issues involving potholes, missing or covered traffic signs, and other road hazards can exist and cause severe crashes. In these cases, liability can be tricky, and you will need a lawyer to help navigate you through this process.

As you can see, there are many reasons for car crashes including the top 10 reasons for a car accident we have outlined above.

At Armour Law Group, you’ll find a committed team ready to pursue your justice and compensation during the most difficult times. Our Orlando personal injury attorneys go above and beyond to get the maximum results our clients need to move forward following a severe injury. Contact us today for a consultation.