Car accidents occur with such frequency in America that they can seem like an inevitability. They are not, but there are many factors that can greatly increase the chance that an auto accident will happen. Some of these factors can be avoided, while others are unexpected. You can minimize the risk of getting into a car accident by being a careful, alert driver, and by making sure that your car is in good condition. If you do end up in an accident, then you should call 1-800-INJURED Tampa to handle all of the legal aspects of the crash.
Distracted Driving
It is not much of a surprise that drivers who do not pay attention to the task at hand end up causing more accidents. Distractions can come from all manner of sources, such as smartphones, eating or drinking, fellow passengers, or the vehicle’s infotainment system. Many drivers believe that they are able to effectively multi-task while operating a vehicle but it only takes a split second of unawareness to cause an accident. Such an accident could be as minor as a fender bender or as devastating as a head-on collision.
The simple fact is that humans are not capable of multitasking, which is focusing on two different, important tasks at once. Rather, what we do is microtask or switchtask, which means we quickly switch back and forth between the different tasks. The result is that we think we are performing both tasks well when, in fact, we are being inefficacious at both. Apply this concept to driving and you can see why attempting to split your attention while driving is so dangerous. The best way to stay safe is to stay focused on driving.
Speeding
Driving too fast is a big contributor to car accidents because it reduces the amount of time a driver has to react to anything unexpected. Even if the driver reacts in time, their vehicle may not be able to, since the faster a car is going, the longer it takes to slow down. Furthermore, it is far easier for a driver to lose control of their vehicle when it is traveling at high speeds. Some drivers may be unsatisfied with speed limits but they are there to help keep everyone safe.
Driving Under The Influence
This is called DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in some places and DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) in others, but they both mean the same thing: driving while mentally impaired. That impairment can be caused by drugs or—as is usually the case—alcohol. Either one can alter the driver’s mental state, lower their reaction times, and compromise their judgment. None of those are conducive to safe driving. What’s more, the penalties for driving drunk or high, regardless of whether or not the driver causes an accident, are extremely severe. Ultimately, intoxicated driving is never worth it, no matter the situation.
Reckless Driving
This can include speeding, but it also involves other unsafe behaviors, like tailgating, running red lights and stop signs, changing lanes without signaling or checking if another car is nearby, and generally ignoring the rules of the road. Reckless driving can sometimes be a result of DUI, but in general, it is all about a driver’s selfishness and disregard for everyone else on the road.
Inclement Weather
Poor weather conditions are a huge factor in causing road accidents. Rain and snow can destabilize the condition of roads and make them slippery, which reduces tire traction and makes it easier for vehicles to lose control. They can also lower visibility, which makes it difficult to see traffic or obstacles in the road. In cases of severe weather, it is important that drivers slow down so that they can better react to the poor driving conditions.
Stay Safe On The Road
There are all manner of factors that can contribute to a dangerous driving environment, but most can be prevented by exercising common sense and good judgment. If you do, then it is unlikely that you will be liable for any damages incurred during the accident. Not everyone will be diligent or careful, of course, which is why accidents happen. If an accident happens to you, then contact a car accident attorney as soon as you can to get the legal help that you need.
