Being involved in an auto accident can be not only painful and traumatic, but they are more common than you may realize. According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), these 6 million car accidents result in more than 2.7 million injuries and more than 36,000 deaths each year. While some car accidents are caused by factors out of anyone’s control like bad weather conditions, the highest percentage of car accidents are caused by the actions of other motorists -- particularly negligent and reckless actions. In this blog, we review the most common causes of car accidents.
#1: Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is any activity that takes the drivers eyes off the road -- from putting on makeup, adjusting the stereo, to texting or using your phone. Of all the forms of distracted driving, texting while driving is by far the most dangerous. The NHTSA reports that cell phone use was reported in 18% of the distracted-related fatal crashes.
#2: Aggressive Driving
Aggressive driving is defined as dangerous on-the-road behavior such as speeding, weaving in and out of traffic, tailgating, and running red lights. These acts can cause accidents and are illegal traffic offenses. New Jersey’s aggressive driving law known as Jessica’s Law imposes severe penalties for drivers convicted of aggressive driving.
#3: Driving Under the Influence
Many substances can impair driving, including alcohol, some over-the-counter and prescription drugs, and illegal drugs. Drivers impaired from alcohol or drugs can cause serious accidents on the road. Keep in mind that a driver can be found negligent in a civil lawsuit even if the driver’s level of impairment was under the legal limit or if the drugs were legally prescribed but contained a warning about driving.
#4: Failure to Yield the Right of Way
Yielding the right of way means allowing other vehicles, bicyclists, or pedestrians to go first, ahead of you, or cross the intersection in front of you. Crashes at intersections account for roughly 40% of all accidents. One of the most common causes of those crashes is failing to yield the right of way.
#5: Weather Conditions
Winter weather, rain, wind and fog can affect tire traction and push vehicles off the road. While weather is considered an act of nature, make sure to slow down or wait to drive until better weather conditions allow for a safe driving environment.
#6: Road Conditions
Poorly maintained roads are not just a cause of car damage. Potholes, loose gravel, lack of signage can all make for hazardous conditions on the road leading to popped tires and other scenarios that could cause a driver to veer off the roadway.
#7: Manufacturing Defects
Unbeknownst to the driver, a defective car part can spell disaster on the road. Many highly publicized manufacturing defects caused fatal accidents in the last several decades -- from airbags to brakes to faulty engine placement. Drivers should be aware of recalls for their vehicle and keep it properly maintained to prevent these types of accidents.
Injured? Contact Us Today for Help
When you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, your entire focus revolves around recovery and getting back on your feet. When that injury is caused by someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing, the added stress, uncertainty, and even anger can take a toll. Figuring out how you will be compensated for your medical bills, lost wages and other damages can be especially complex in car accidents. Our experienced New Jersey car accident lawyers can help you recover fair compensation for your injuries.
At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, we believe in compassionate client care and an honest, straight-forward approach. We will conduct a detailed investigation, negotiate with insurers and prepare a strong case on your behalf. Put our decades of experience to work so you can focus on your recovery and what really matters.
There’s no risk in giving us a call to find out how we can help. We’ve helped people just like you move forward after sustaining an injury. Contact us now at (877) 448-7350 for a free legal consultation.