Auto accidents are among the most prevailing incidents around the world every day. Most of these accidents can actually be avoided simply by taking the right precautions. Unfortunately, not everyone takes these precautions. While accidents do happen, certain factors can put a driver at a much higher risk of getting into an accident. Below are six factors that could put a driver more at risk of getting in an auto accident:
The Amount of People in the Vehicle
Studies have shown that the more people are in a car, the higher the odds are of an accident. This is because the more people that are in a vehicle, the higher the odds are that there will be distractions. Be it looking out for the safety of the passengers, or being distracted by loud passengers, the amount of people in a car can greatly increase the risk of an auto accident.
Driving a Poorly Maintained Car
The check engine light, the check oil light, the tire pressure light – all lights that routinely go ignored for an extended period of time need attention sooner, rather than later. If left ignored, an automobile can require maintenance that could otherwise make it more susceptible to an accident. For example, driving a vehicle with low tire pressure or worn tires can cause a driver to lose control of their vehicle unexpectedly, which could in turn cause a serious auto accident.
Texting and Driving
Texting and driving claims thousands of lives each and every year. Studies suggest that these incidents are not limited to teenagers, but people of all age groups. Beyond texting, this includes social media notifications, phone calls, notifications, alerts, and any distraction an unmuted cellphone could pose. Simply keeping a cellphone at arm’s reach and in direct visibility could be a distraction that leads to an auto accident.
It is not uncommon for roads to be repaved or renovated. However, in the process of renovating, roads are often closed and detour signs are posted. Sometimes, crew working on renovations fail to post the appropriate signage alerting drivers of ongoing construction. When this happens, a driver will continue on familiar routes as normal. This lack of warning can lead to an auto accident that could have very easily been avoided.
Driving while fatigued or tired can easily lead to an accident. A study conducted by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety suggests that drivers who only sleep five to six hours per day are more than twice as likely to get into an auto accident. Moreover, data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that over 20 percent of auto accidents involve a drowsy driver. This is because fatigue and tiredness are comparable to driving while intoxicated. A driver’s response time is dramatically lowered as is their ability to driver properly. It is imperative that a tired driver gets rest before getting behind the wheel.
An often surprising and unexpected factor that could lead to an accident is whether or not it is a holiday. Some holidays, like Thanksgiving and Christmas, are prone to crowded roads and heavy traffic. Other holidays, like Memorial and Labor Day, are similar with the added danger of increased chances of drivers operating their vehicle under the influence of alcohol. These factors can come together and lead to a serious accident.
Being mindful of these factors can give a driver a more solid chance of avoiding an accident. But despite best efforts and precautions, accidents do happen, often as a result of someone else’s negligence.
If you or a loved one have been injured in an auto accident, you need a personal injury lawyer who could help. Contact the law offices of Bramnick, Rodriguez, Grabas, Arnold & Mangan today to schedule your case consultation. Contact using the online form or call 877.423.4878 today.