Car accidents almost seem like commonplace, and just a risk that we all have to face when we get into the driver’s seat. However, this doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t take precautions and drive safely, as a way to decrease the odds of being in a serious wreck. As a car accident attorney from Glotzer & Leib, LLP has seen, not every person who is given the permission to drive will do so with consideration for the wellbeing of others. Here are some of the reasons why car accidents may unfold in the first place.
Distracted Driving
The leading cause of car accidents is distracted driving, so this is anything that takes your full attention away from the road. The other driver may have been texting, on a phone call, checking their email, eating lunch, doing their makeup, or otherwise not paying attention. The fewer distractions that we have while driving a car, the more we can protect ourselves and others that we share the roadway with.
Speeding
Signs for speed limits are placed for a reason, as they notify the driver of the safest speed to travel through that area. The speed limit is based on whether there tends to be higher levels of traffic, uneven roads, sharp turns, or other factors. If you drive faster than the speed limit, the slower your reaction time is, which can make the difference in avoiding a crash or not. The driver who hit you may have been speeding and violating set speed restrictions for that street or highway.
Reckless Driving
Most people have seen just how reckless other drivers can be. A driver may be speeding in excess and swerving between cars in order to get ahead, or a driver may be in such a rush to get to their job that they tailgate alarmingly close to those in front of them. Whatever the case may be, being reckless may cause an accident in which that driver would be responsible for how others have suffered.
Inclement Weather
Weather conditions can be a factor in a car accident. The most common type of weather that causes collisions is rainfall. The reason for this is because rain creates a more slick and dangerous surface to drive on. Car drivers and motorcyclists may easily lose control of their vehicles if they lack traction and end up sliding across the road. All drivers are encouraged to slow down, pay attention, and drive more safely during inclement weather.
While vehicle collisions are part of the risk of having motor vehicles, we still must drive as safely as possible to limit the likelihood of them happening. Those who have been in car accidents must get medical attention promptly, and may want to speak with a lawyer so that they have a legal professional to advocate for their behalf and in pursuit of financial compensation. Drivers who are reckless, speeding, distracted, or not being more careful during inclement weather may cause a crash that they are then legally liable for; contact a lawyer today if you have been in a crash.