Thousands of people are killed every year as a result of car accidents. In many cases, the accident could have been entirely avoided by taking simple preventative measures.
Whether you’re on a busy city road or cruising along in the country, usually car accidents are a result of the same reasons. Take a look at some of the most common causes of car accidents.
Distracted Driving
A lot of people spend so much time in their cars that they start to become overconfident. As a result, they start multi-tasking allow their focus to stray from the road ahead of them.
Distracted driving can not only result in rear-end accidents but even tragic head-on collisions. When you’re driving, you shouldn’t be doing anything else besides looking at the road ahead of you. That means not doing your makeup, fiddling with the radio, or eating. Save those activities for when you’re at home or pulled over.
Speeding
One of the most common reasons for accidents is speeding. It’s important to always pay attention to the signs around you so that you’re aware of the limits. The speed limits are put in place for a reason. In some areas, it’s because there are children present, and in some cases, it’s because of dangerous curves ahead.
Don’t assume that you’re above the law, and the rules don’t apply to you. Even if you’re in a hurry to get to your destination, nothing is worth risking your life or someone else’s. Follow the speed limit at all times!
Drunk Driving
It’s all too common of a scenario: Someone has a few drinks and is convinced that they’re fine to drive. The problem is that even though you may be certain that you’re in a condition to drive, you’re not in your best state of mind.
Even if you’re convinced, you’re only “buzzed,” alcohol impairs your ability to act quickly. If you need to brake suddenly, you may not be able to do so in time. You may also have impaired vision, which results in missing someone on the road.
Pay for a cab or arrange a designated driver to take you home if you’ve had more than the legal limit of alcohol.
Texting
Somehow, people still haven’t learned yet that cell phones don’t belong anywhere near your body while driving. Cell phones result in tens of thousands of deaths a year. Put your phone away, where you can’t see or hear it.
Yes, even when you’re at a red light or stop sign. You are not the exception to the rule!
Weather
Whether it’s fog or rain, weather can make driving more difficult to do. Always keep a safe following distance and drive at a slower speed when in adverse weather conditions.
