If you are a driver, it is important that you understand what the leading causes of car accidents are. There are many different contributing factors and knowing these can help you avoid them. Here are some of the most prominent ones:
Distraction caused by the weather. This is probably the number one leading cause of car accidents in the U.S. right now. Speeding is also the second highest common cause of accident, resulting in nearly 1.5 million annual fatalities. One of the most dangerous aspects of high speeds is that they present a greater risk for other drivers, as well. Any time two cars are traveling at fast speeds on the same side of the road, it is very likely that accidents will occur.
Ignorance is a common cause of accidents for many drivers. For example, if you are caught speeding, chances are that you are not wearing your seatbelt. Not only are broken bones more likely to occur if you are traveling at high speeds, but also your body can take longer to heal in case of an injury. Speeding laws were created to protect everyone, especially motorists and pedestrians that utilize the roads on a daily basis. Driving too fast can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Faulty navigation systems and lack of experience on the part of drivers are also common causes of motor vehicle accidents each year. People often fail to see things that are underneath the surface of the road. There is nothing worse than having a collision with another vehicle, only to have their windshield break because of a skid. In addition, many drivers do not realize that the driver’s blind spot, in addition to a shoulder and a backseat, can actually result in a collision.
Poor mechanical control and driving habits are another one of the leading causes of automobile accidents each year. Many automobiles come equipped with automatic seat belts, but they are rarely used because most people are unaware of the importance of them. Not using these safety belts effectively can lead to serious injury or even death. Many drivers become accustomed to relaxed driving habits without first making sure that they are in a comfortable position when they are behind the wheel. If you observe that other drivers are more comfortable behind the wheel of their vehicle than you are, then you should not be able to drive casually on the road without first making sure that your seat belt is properly installed.
One of the leading causes of vehicle crashes is due to the reckless and irresponsible behavior of motorists during certain times of the year. During bad weather, people tend to be more reckless because it is more difficult to control their vehicles. People must also remember that during daylight hours, there are more hazards on the road, such as deer animals. Driving during bad weather conditions or poor road conditions can lead to terrible accidents, and you should avoid driving during bad weather if at all possible.