Accidents are inevitable, but there are instances where they are avoidable. Several accidents are caused by human error, and many claims are processed as a result of recklessness and negligence driving. The sad thing is that the benefits offered by insurance companies do not reverse injuries or bring back lost life. Therefore, there are certain things that you need to be wary of while driving. Read on to learn some of the common causes of car accidents you need to avoid.
Failure To Observe Road Signs
Each road sign that you see is there for a specific purpose, and you should obey it no matter the highway is clear of traffic. Many accidents are caused by reckless drivers who fail to observe traffic signals along the way. The most common but avoidable cause of car crashes is overtaking in prohibited zones. You must use the right lane when passing, and you can only do this when the way is clear of oncoming traffic. Try to check all blind spots on the road and approach with caution.
Distracted Driving
Texting or using a smartphone while on the wheel is also called distracted driving and is responsible for accidents that claim thousands of people’s lives. Hundreds of thousands of people have also been injured as a result of distracted driving. Professional attorneys from Nicoletti Law explain that cell phone use on the road is illegal in many states. You can get a citation from the law enforcers for the second offense. Additionally, you can lose more money to insurance premiums when you cause an accident while texting on the road. The insurance company can take responsibility, but you will end up paying high premiums in the future.
The problem with using a phone behind the wheel is that you endanger the lives of different people, including yourself. The use of a mobile phone on the road is a habit that is difficult to stop, but there are certain things that you can do to prevent it. If you cannot live without your mobile phone, then try to connect it through the car’s hands-free option. Alternatively, put the device in a place that is inaccessible while driving. Turning on the stereo is another form of distracted driving that you can avoid using the steering wheel’s controls.
Fatigue
Fatigue is another common cause of car accidents that is avoidable. This problem is common among long-distance truck drivers who may be forced by company owners to travel long distances without rest to meet delivery targets. However, the human body needs rest, and this is the reason why most drivers end up in vehicle crashes due to lack of sleep. To avoid this problem, you can pull out of the road and take a nap if there is no other driver to relieve you. On top of that, mechanical faults need to be fixed before traveling.
Driving Under The Influence Of Alcohol
Many car crashes that lead to the deaths and injuries of many people every year in various states are a result of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs. It is illegal to drive when you are intoxicated, and this can result in the cancellation of your license. As a golden rule, you should stay off the road when you are drunk or call an Uber to take you home. The main problem with alcohol is that it impairs your judgment, and you end up making mistakes that can endanger other road users and yourself.
Aggressive Driving
Driving under immense pressure can lead to fatal crashes. For instance, speeding is a terrible contributor to road accidents, and you can avoid this by following road rules and regulations. There are speed limits in different zones, but many people tend to ignore them, which leads to accidents. You must try to be ahead of time so that you will not drive aggressively.
Driving In Poor Weather
Poor weather conditions also contribute to road accidents. While no one can change the outlook, it is essential to check the weather forecast before you hit the road. You must also have an idea of the climate of the area you will be going to if you are not familiar with it. When there is snow or fog, it may be a good idea to avoid driving until they clear. It is better to be late than to risk your life by forcing things that only endanger your life.
Road accidents are devastating, but the challenge is that about 90% of them are a result of human error. In other words, some road crashes are avoidable if the drivers take safety precautions. There are many things that you need to consider when driving to be safe. More importantly, do not forget to wear your safety belt.
