Car accidents are a major cause of death in the United States, and they also result in a lot of injuries. In 2020, there were about 35,000 fatalities from car accidents. In addition to that, there were about 2.3 million people who were injured in car accidents. Car accidents can happen for many reasons, but here are some of the most common:
Distracted driving.
Distracted driving occurs when a driver takes their eyes off of the road due to texting, eating, or other activities. The person is not focused on the road or driving, which can contribute to car accidents, near-misses, and poor visibility. Drivers who text while driving are more likely to be involved in a car crash than those who do not.
A report from the University of North Carolina Highway Safety Research Center has shown that texting drivers are over five times more likely to experience a crash. About 12% of drivers involved in fatal crashes were reported to have been texting. The study also found that almost all drivers who were involved in a fatal crash were distracted, which is dangerous because it takes up an enormous amount of cognitive resources and can make driving difficult.
Failure to yield right of way.
The right of way is the privilege of the immediate use of a roadway. This is granted by law to one vehicle over another. It can be granted by law, courtesy, or simple observance of traffic rules. If a driver of a vehicle fails to yield the right of way, that driver can be charged with failure to yield the right of way.
Speeding.
Driving over the speed limit is one of the most common causes of car accidents. Excessive speed is a factor in nearly one-third of all fatal crashes in the United States. Speed limits in the United States are, by law, set at a level that is "reasonable and prudent." This means the limit is set below what a driver can maintain with his or her ability. For example, if it has been raining hard for most of the day, then it would be reasonable to go below the speed limit because cars cannot accelerate in wet conditions as easily.
Driving under the influence (DUI)
This involves driving a car on a public road while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. It's illegal and dangerous because it can impair judgment, slow reflexes, and dull coordination. A DUI can lead to car accidents and injuries, including death.
Improper lane changes.
Improper lane changes are one of the most common causes of car accidents. As such, there are many things motorists can do to prevent this from happening. For example, if you're planning to change lanes, make sure to signal and check your blind spot before changing lanes. Also, be sure to check your mirrors before making a move.
As a driver, you are responsible for the safety of yourself and your passengers. This means following all traffic laws and regulations. If you are involved in a car accident, be sure to contact the police and follow their instructions. As a driver, you must have an understanding of what to do in the event of an accident. It is important to remember that obeying these laws is the best way to prevent any car accidents from happening.
