What Are the Top Five Causes of Preventable Car Crashes?

Thousands of car accidents are responsible for fatalities, injuries, and costly vehicle and property damage every year. Research shows that more than 90 percent of preventable car accidents are due to human error. Since “human error” can be difficult to break down, here are the top five causes of preventable car crashes.

Distracted Driving

According to Ronald J. Jebaily, a car accident lawyer in Florence, SC, distracted driving is one of the leading causes of preventable car accidents. If you’ve ever been in a fender bender or come close to getting in an accident, it may come as no surprise that distracted driving is a leading cause.

While a significant amount of distracted driving related accidents are caused by drivers who text and drive, distracted driving can be caused by anything that takes a driver’s eyes off the road.

Even though many people assume that young and inexperienced teenage drivers are the only ones who drive while distracted, drivers of all ages may drive distracted.

Drunk Driving

Drunk driving continues to be an epidemic throughout the U.S., despite the strict state laws to deter drivers from making the mistake of driving under the influence of alcohol. While driving drunk is completely avoidable, thousands of drivers decide to get behind the wheel after their judgment has been compromised due to alcohol.

According to Virginia Beach car accident lawyer Edwin S. Booth, drunk drivers are responsible for over 100,000 deaths every year. Not only does alcohol play a role in impairing one’s judgment, but it also increases the risk of driving more reckless (such as speeding, tailgating, or aggressive driving).

Reckless Behaviors

Since the majority of preventable accidents are a result of human error, it means that a variety of reckless behaviors and decisions are responsible for accidents. While many people may regard distracted or drunk driving as a reckless behavior, there are dozens of other “bad choices” that can make a driver irresponsible and reckless.

From speeding and tailgating to driving while sleep deprived, and according to Florida car accident lawyer Jerrad Ohr, poor decisions and reckless behaviors remain some of the leading causes of thousands of car accidents.

Poor Weather and Traffic Conditions

Driving in snow or rain can make roads instantly more hazardous, decreasing a driver’s ability to brake the car safely, stay in the right lane, or have control over the car. While drivers don’t have control over the weather, they can practice caution and use judgment when operating their vehicle in poor weather.

Traffic congestion and other conditions are also the main cause of preventable car accidents. Again, while motorists may not be able to avoid a congested section of road during morning gridlock or an area that’s under construction, they are responsible for staying attentive and ensuring there’s enough room between the car in front of theirs.

Road Signs That Are Difficult to Read

Most drivers are familiar with the basic road signs, but inexperienced drivers may be at a greater risk for an otherwise preventable accident if they are unfamiliar with certain road signs. Additionally, some road signs or markings on the roads may be difficult to read due to wear and tear. If a driver is inattentive, they may miss important information that can keep them safer on the road.

These are just a few of the preventable causes of car crashes. If you drive regularly, make sure you avoid these common hazards. You’ll keep yourself and others on the road safer.