Auto accidents happen every day. Many people are likely to suffer at least one auto accident during their lifetime. In many cases, these auto accidents lead to serious injuries and losses.
Some people want to know how auto accidents happen. Here are a few common causes of auto accidents:
1. Reckless driving
One of the most common causes of auto accidents is recklessness. Reckless driving means operating a vehicle in a way that violates traffic laws and endangers the lives of other drivers and pedestrians.
A driver can be reckless in a number of ways. Speeding, for example, is a large cause of auto accidents. Drivers who are speeding often have lower reaction speeds, shorter distances to stop before an impact and higher fatality rates. Several other types of reckless driving include:
- Tailgating
- Brake checking
- Improper lane changes
- Running red lights and stop signs
- Swerving between lanes
- Illegal turns
- Road rage
Disregarding traffic laws and the safety of others can lead to serious injuries and losses.
2. Drunk driving
Driving under the influence of a substance, whether it is alcohol or a drug, increases the risk of auto accidents. Drunk drivers have lower reaction time, poor judgment, limited visibility and impaired motor control. A driver is considered drunk if their blood alcohol content (BAC) is above the legal limit. However, a person’s tolerance for alcohol can still affect their driving capabilities even if they are below the legal limit.
3. Distracted driving
Distracted driving is a growing traffic danger. A driver becomes distracted when they look away from the road, take their hands off the wheel or think of anything other than driving. Some common causes of distracted driving include phone use, talking to passengers, eating, applying makeup or changing the radio.
People who have been injured as a result of an auto accident should reach out for legal guidance to learn more about their rights and options for financial recovery.