When you wake up and get behind the wheels, you trust that your driving skills will get you to your destination safely. Unfortunately, accidents happen; and they are caused by a wide range of factors: Bad weather, third-party negligence and poor vehicle and road conditions among others.
Most car accidents are preventable. However, according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), well over 90 percent of motor vehicle accidents result from some form of human error. This is, without a doubt, a staggering statistic.
So, how does human error cause road accidents? Here are some of the main problems:
Reckless driving
Reckless or aggressive driving takes multiple forms. These include making sharp turns in dangerous spots, tailgating, racing on the streets, shifting lanes dangerously and making illegal maneuvers. These dangerous practices can greatly endanger lives and property.
Speeding
You have probably heard the adage, “speed thrills, but kills.” In fact, NTSA reports that speeding claims well over 9,000 American lives each year. Going slightly past the designated speed limit is a common practice among motorists. However, it is important to understand that there is more to speeding than just breaking the law. When a motorist speeds:
- They are likely to lose control of the vehicle
- They are less likely to act fast when there is danger
- In an event of a crash, the impact is likely to be quite severe
Besides endangering their own lives, speeding also endangers the lives of other road users.
Impaired driving
Operating a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol is another common cause of car accidents. This is because drunk driving impairs the driver’s judgment and ability to remain alert while behind the wheels.
If you’ve been injured in a wreck caused by another driver’s mistakes, learn what it takes to get fair compensation for your losses.
