In 2020, there was a traffic crash every 3 minutes and 55 seconds in Alabama. Getting into a car accident can lead to serious injuries, medical bills, and property damage.
One way you can prevent car accidents in Birmingham is by learning more about the common causes of car accidents. This way, you can learn how to prevent them and how to become a safer driver.
Do you want to learn more about common car accident lawyers and how to prevent them? Keep reading this guide from a car accident attorney for everything you need to know about car crashes in Birmingham.
Distracted Driving
One of the most common car accident causes is distracted driving. In fact, 3,142 people were killed in accidents involving distracted drivers in 2020. This is because distractions are becoming more frequent and more easily accessible.
While many people think that distracted driving only comes from cell phone usage while driving, there are many other things that can distract drivers. Even things like using your GPS or radio can make it easier to get into a car accident.
Other forms of distracted driving include eating while driving, talking to passengers, and rubbernecking.
Drunk Driving
Drunk or impaired driving is also something that frequently claims lives on the road. When you are impaired by drugs or alcohol, your reaction time and alertness will decline. This makes it extremely dangerous to get behind the wheel of a large vehicle.
When you drive drunk, it makes it difficult to make decisions while driving. This is because alcohol can affect your cognitive function, reasoning, and even your muscle coordination.
You should never get behind the wheel when you are impaired. If you think that someone on the road could be driving impaired, you should immediately call 911 to report them. If you are involved in a car accident with a drunk driver, you should work with a car accident attorney.
Auto Defects
While many car accidents are due to driver negligence or driver error, issues with your vehicle can also lead to car accidents. If you have a defective part on your vehicle or if you do not properly maintain your car, this can lead to a sudden loss of control.
For example, if you drive on poorly maintained tires, it can cause your tire to blow while you are driving which may lead to an accident.
Keeping your car well-maintained can help you avoid unnecessary accidents on the road.
Road Hazards
Even the best drivers may get into an accident if there are poor road conditions. For example, driving in a construction zone can be confusing and dangerous. The changing lanes and other things, like cones, may distract drivers and cause an accident.
You may also hit an object on the road, which can easily lead to a car accident. If a car lost a tire or if an object flew out of the back of a truck, hitting these with your vehicle can cause serious damage.
If you see any hazardous objects on the road, you must try to avoid them.
Poor Weather
If you are unfamiliar with driving in certain weather conditions, this is something that can easily lead to a car accident. Whether you are driving in rain, snow, ice, or fog, this can lead to hazardous road conditions.
Poor weather combined with other types of driver error, like speeding, can also lead to serious car accidents.
It is best to avoid driving in poor weather conditions when possible. Otherwise, make sure you drive at a lower speed and learn how to maneuver your vehicle in different types of weather.
Inexperienced Drivers
Inexperienced drivers are another common cause of car accidents. People that do not have enough practice driving on busy roads may not understand the rules of the road and can easily cause a car accident.
Whether you are a teenager or simply haven’t driven in a long time, you should always do a quick refresh of the rules of the road before you start to drive. You should also avoid anything that could distract you while driving.
Unsafe Lane Changes
Making lane changes can also be quite dangerous when you are on the road. Nearly everyone has been cut off while driving, which can easily lead to a car accident. This is because it lowers your reaction time and doesn’t give you enough space between vehicles.
When you are changing lanes, make sure you have plenty of room in front of your vehicle and behind your vehicle.
You should also always use your blinker to indicate your lane change and give other drivers plenty of preparation!
Improper Turns
Finally, improper turns can easily lead to a car accident. Not only can people turn into oncoming traffic, but they may be in the wrong lane when attempting a turn.
If there is a specific lane for turning left or right, make sure you are in the designated lane before attempting a turn.
You must also be observant to make sure the way is clear before you turn. This is especially important if you are making a left turn. Only turn when you have plenty of time to get ahead of other vehicles!
Learn More About Common Causes of Car Accidents
Driving can be very dangerous, especially under the wrong conditions. Learning more about these common causes of car accidents can help you avoid accidents and be a safer driver.
If you are involved in an accident, hiring a lawyer can help you through the process of filing a claim and getting compensated in Birmingham and Huntsville, AL. Collins Law specializes in car accident injuries and personal injury cases and can help you recover your losses.
Contact us today to learn more about filing a car accident claim or to schedule a consultation!