By David Peel
According to statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there are several driving actions that contribute significantly to the number of accidents in the United States.
DISTRACTION: One of the most common causes of accidents is distracted driving. This includes texting or talking on the phone while driving, eating, adjusting the radio or navigation system, or any other activity that diverts the driver’s attention from the road. In fact, the NHTSA reports that distracted driving caused over 2,800 deaths and 400,000 injuries in 2018 alone.
SPEEDING: Another major contributing factor to accidents is speeding. Driving above the speed limit or too fast for the current road conditions increases the likelihood of losing control of the vehicle or not being able to stop in time to avoid a collision. Speeding was a factor in 9,378 fatalities in 2018, according to the NHTSA. Speed limits your ability to deal with whatever happens, whether it be a deer, a slowing car or road debris.
DUI: Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is also a significant cause of accidents in the United States. In 2018, there were 10,511 fatalities involving alcohol-impaired driving, accounting for nearly 29% of all traffic fatalities that year. Additionally, drug-impaired driving is becoming an increasingly prevalent issue, with a 16% increase in the number of drivers involved in fatal crashes who tested positive for drugs between 2015 and 2019.
ROAD RAGE & RECKLESSNESS: Other common causes of accidents include aggressive driving, such as tailgating and weaving through traffic, and failure to obey traffic laws, such as running red lights or stop signs.
AVOID LEFT TURNS as these are often needlessly dangerous.
AVOID YELLOW LIGHTS as they invite collisions.
Being more aware of these behaviors and taking long steps to avoid them reduces the risk of accidents and helps keep ourselves and others safe on the road.
Peel seeks justice for those injured in tractor trailer and car accidents, medical malpractice, and disability. He often addresses churches, clubs and groups without charge. Peel may be reached through PeelLawFirm.com wherein other articles may be accessed.
