There are dozens of reasons that car crashes could happen ranging from mechanical errors to drivers’ mistakes. As a victim of a crash, knowing the cause can be important. Even if you made a minor error, a more serious mistake, like driving while drunk or distracted, could mean that the other driver is liable for the collision.
Of the dozens of reasons for crashes, there are three prominent causes. One is speeding. Another is driving while intoxicated. The third is being distracted when you should be paying attention to the road.
1. Speeding
Speeding is a cause of accidents often because of the driver’s inability to stop quickly. Speeding is actually the second most common cause of collisions in the United States. To prevent these crashes, all people have to do is slow down.
2. Driving while intoxicated
This is one of the most dangerous things you can do behind the wheel of a vehicle. Driving while intoxicated changes your perception of what’s going on around you and can make your reflexes much slower. In addition, you may not pay attention to the road or could pass out behind the wheel. Avoid serious collisions due to drinking and driving by avoiding drinks for several hours before you get behind the wheel. If you will be drinking, consider bringing along a personal Breathalyzer, so you can test your BAC before you drive.
3. Distractions behind the wheel
There are many different things that could distract you while you’re behind the wheel ranging from accidents outside your vehicle to spills or fights inside the vehicle. To avoid distractions that could cause you to crash, turn off your phone, don’t eat when driving and avoid talking to passengers or allowing them to argue while you drive. You need to place your full focus on the road, which may be impossible if you’re distracted by other people or things happening inside or outside your vehicle.
If you are hit by someone who has been distracted, who chose to drive drunk or who was speeding, then you should be made aware of it. You deserve to be fully informed when you seek compensation from the other party’s insurance company. The cause of the accident does matter, and how you want to handle the case moving forward may also depend on if the driver will face criminal charges or not due to their actions behind the wheel.
