When determining liability in a car accident, one of the things you need to prove is causation. You must show that the person who caused your accident was negligent and that the negligent act led to the crash. It’s vital to recognize just how serious some of the causes of car accidents can be.
Because we want you to recognize your rights to pursue compensation, we break down a list of the top ten car accident causes that may lead to some of the most catastrophic injuries. You will also have a better understanding of how they lead to accidents and what to look for to be careful and remain safe.
The top 10 causes of car accidents include the following:
- Speeding
- Intoxicated driving
- Distracted driving
- Tailgating
- Failing to yield
- Failing to check blind spots
- Texting and driving
- Drowsy driving
- Aggressive driving
- Auto defects
Call our firm today if you suffer an injury because of someone else’s negligence: (855) 245-5100.
1. Speeding
Posted speed limits exist for a reason. Still, countless drivers ignore traffic laws and speed well over what is safe for the conditions. Those who speed have a higher chance of losing control on the road, and it puts countless individuals in harm.
In an accident involving speeding, there is an increased risk of higher force, which means they often lead to some of the most catastrophic injuries.
2. Intoxicated Driving
Alcohol plays a role in a high number of accidents. When someone is drinking and driving, it can result in some of the worst accidents as individuals swerve from lane to lane, speed up and flow down, and follow too closely.
Intoxication can impact motor function, decision-making, and cognitive skills, which can result in a severe crash.
3. Distracted Driving
Distracted driving can be one of the worst actions on the road. Distractions can be manual, visual, or cognitive. Here are some of the different types of distractions, aside from texting and driving, you should be aware of:
- Eating and drinking
- Scanning through radio stations
- Reaching through the vehicle for items
- Turning to speak with passengers
- Listening to music too loudly
Even if you look to the side of the road at another incident, it is a visual distraction, and you risk crashing into another vehicle. Signs of distractions can include swerving, erratic braking, and speeding.
4. Tailgating
When someone is following you too closely, they may not have the time to stop as you approach to traffic. Tailgating can also feel like it’s aggressive driving, but it’s also a sign of inexperience. If someone is following you too closely, try to change lanes and allow the driver to pass you.
5. Failing to Yield
Inexperience is a common issue leading to drivers failing to yield at red lights, stop signs, traffic signals, and for turns. Unfortunately, some drivers don’t consider others’ right of way or are impatient, and it often leads to severe injury. In any situation where you must stop or other vehicles should yield, it’s best to give yourself time before proceeding.
6. Failing to Check Blind Spots
Blind spots are problematic, but many experienced drivers take the necessary precautions to ensure they are merging carefully. Checking blind spots means a quick glance over your shoulder into the area where your mirrors cannot see. Before you do this, though, make sure there’s enough room in front of you to prevent a crash.
7. Texting and Driving
The most common form of distracted driving, texting includes all three forms. Texting is a visual distraction because you have to look at your phone, a manual distraction because you hold your phone, and a cognitive distraction because you have to read and respond. It can take five to ten second to text, and that’s enough time to cause catastrophic harm.
8. Drowsy Driving
When someone is tired, they should avoid driving. Drowsy driving leads to swerving and erratic behavior. If someone falls asleep behind the wheel, it’s easy for them to lose control of their vehicle and it can result in the most devastating crashes.
9. Aggressive Driving
Aggressive driving can include tailgating, but it can also include issues such as cutting off, swerving toward another driver, and honking at other drivers. Even if the driver doesn’t directly cause the accident by colliding with your vehicle, their actions may lead to a crash as you try to avoid the dangerous behavior.
10. Auto Defects
Auto manufacturers must ensure that the vehicles they put on the market are safe and drivable. Unfortunately, auto defects exist, often leading to recalls. However, before recalls occur, the issues often lead to significant injuries.
At Pringle & Herigstad, P.C., we know how difficult it is to endure a crash because of someone else’s actions. Holding someone accountable for the damages you sustain is imperative because you need compensation for medical bills, lost income, ongoing care, property damage, and more.
Our North Dakota car accident attorneys will be there for you every step of the way. We’ll advocate for your rights, fighting for the outcome you need and deserve. For years, we’ve represented the injured throughout North Dakota, and it’s been our top priority to provide the highest level of care when you need it most. Trust us to be your allies, and we’ll be your voice every step of the way.
Call our firm today at (855) 245-5100 and learn how we may be able to help you. We offer a free consultation, so you can get answers when you need them.
