Causes of Car Accidents in Baltimore City

Based on the statistics, most drivers in the United States will be involved in a car accident at some point in their life. Considering the advances in safety technology, one might expect the number of car accidents to have decreased in recent years. Unfortunately, that is not the case. Every year, thousands of lives are lost on roads and highways across the country due to car accidents.

Whether the crash is a minor fender bender or a head-on collision that causes massive damage and severe injuries, car accidents are caused by a variety of factors. Some are a result of driver error or negligence; while others may be attributed to one or a combination of factors such as weather, mechanical malfunctions, and poor road conditions.

The following are some of the most common causes of car accidents and ways to prevent a crash:

• Construction sites: If a construction zone is not properly marked, drivers can become confused and drift into another lane or into oncoming traffic. Drivers should always stay alert reduce their speed when approaching a construction zone.

• Distracted driving: This has become one of the most common causes of car accidents in recent years. In fact, according to the National Safety Council (NSC), 25% of all car accidents involve a driver who was either talking on the phone or texting while driving. Too often, drivers are tempted to make a quick call, send a text, or check social media without considering the ramifications. Avoid temptation by making a habit of putting your phone away whenever you get into the car. It only takes a few seconds of being distracted for a tragic accident to occur.

• Drunk driving: According to recent estimates, there are approximately 300,000 incidents of drunk driving in the United States every year. People continue to get behind the wheel after drinking, despite the known dangers. Avoid a wreck by always choosing a designated driver if there will be alcohol served at the event you are attending. If you have had too much to drink, call a friend or a cab, or arrange to stay the night.

• Drowsy driving: This can be just as dangerous as drunk driving, especially for drivers who fall asleep at the wheel. A person’s ability to react quickly is diminished when they have not had enough sleep. If you start to feel drowsy while you are driving, pull over, get some fresh air or something to eat, or take a short nap if possible.

• Inclement weather: When rain, ice, sleet, and snow make the roads wet and slippery, collisions can happen very easily. Bright sun glare and heavy fog can also affect visibility, and high winds can make it difficult to maintain control of the car. Reduce your speed when encountering hazardous weather conditions and pull over if necessary and wait until it is safe to drive.

• Reckless driving: Changing lanes too quickly or without signaling, speeding, tailgating, using angry gestures, and cutting off other drivers are all examples of reckless driving, which can result in very serious car accidents. Try to remain calm at all times when you are driving. One single act of recklessness can cause injuries to yourself and other drivers in the vicinity.

• Running red lights or stop signs: When drivers attempt to beat a light that is changing from yellow to red, there is an increased risk of a car accident occurring if the car collides with a vehicle coming from the other direction. Take your time and always obey the rules of the road.

• Poor road conditions: From potholes to debris in the road, these can cause tire blowouts and other damage that can lead to a wreck. If the driver attempts to avoid a pothole by swerving out of the way, he or she runs the risk of hitting an oncoming vehicle. Always maintain a safe distance from the vehicle you are following to give yourself adequate time to react to a potentially dangerous road hazard.

Baltimore City Car Accident Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Help Injured Car Accident Victims Obtain Compensation

Baltimore City car accident lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton have a proven track record of securing maximum financial compensation for clients who have been injured as a result of a car accident. Our dedicated team will take you through every step of the legal process, ensuring the best possible outcome for your case. To schedule a free consultation, call us today at 800-547-4LAW (4529) or contact us online.

Our offices are located in Baltimore, Columbia, Glen Burnie, and Towson, allowing us to represent car accident victims throughout Maryland, including those in Baltimore City.