Injury Lawyers

According to a car accident lawyer with our friends at MartinWren, P.C., car crashes are one of the most dangerous and frightening things a person can experience. Unfortunately, this reality is becoming more and more commonplace each day as every year, thousands of people are killed in car accidents — many of which could have been prevented if proper safety precautions had been taken. Learn more about these causes and how to avoid them, then contact a personal injury lawyer near you.

Daily Deaths

It’s a sad but true reality that car accidents cause far too many preventable deaths every year. According to the National Safety Council, an estimated number of close to 40,000 people were killed in motor vehicle accidents in 2019. This means that over 110 people are killed each day as a result of motor vehicle collisions. It’s a sobering thought that so many lives can be lost in such a short period of time. Many of these deaths are preventable, however, and could have been avoided if individuals had made different choices when driving. For instance, drivers should avoid impaired driving, obey speed limits, practice defensive driving, use their seatbelts, and limit distractions while on the road. Making smart decisions while behind the wheel can make all the difference between life and death.

Leading Causes

The top three causes of fatal car accidents are distracted driving, drunk driving, and speeding.

• Distracted Driving: According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving is a major contributor to road fatalities. Distractions behind the wheel include anything from eating and drinking, to using a cell phone, applying makeup, or simply not paying attention to the road. Distracted driving is especially dangerous in congested areas or on highways where vehicles are traveling at higher speeds.
• Drunk Driving: Impaired driving is another leading cause of car crashes. Alcohol-impaired drivers make decisions that put them and others at risk, often making poor judgment calls or not being able to control their vehicles as well as sober drivers.
• Speeding: Excessive speed is another major cause of car crashes. High speeds can lead to a driver’s loss of control of their vehicle, reducing the amount of time they have to react to hazards on the road. Even with safe driving practices, high speeds can cause cars to take longer to stop and potentially hit other vehicles, objects, or pedestrians.

Impairment Factors

Anything that hinders a driver’s ability to control the car and react to changing conditions can be considered an impairment. Fatigue is a major factor in car accidents. Drivers who are tired or fatigued are much more likely to make errors that can cause an accident. Fatigue can impair reaction time and judgment, making it difficult for the driver to make quick decisions. The best way to avoid fatigue-related accidents is to get enough sleep and to avoid driving if you are feeling tired. Certain medical conditions, such as seizures and vision impairments, can also increase the risk of an accident. It is important for drivers with these types of conditions to inform their doctor and make sure they are following the necessary steps to remain safe while driving.

In order to reduce the risk of an accident due to impairment, it is important for drivers to be aware of these factors and take steps to avoid them. However, if you have been involved in an accident, contact an attorney near you for help immediately.