Harford County Car Accident Lawyers
Common Causes of Car Accidents
While most people do not plan on getting into a wreck every time they get behind the wheel, car accidents continue to cause serious injuries and fatalities across the country. Over 35,000 people died in motor vehicles crashes in 2015, and thousands more were injured. Unfortunately, that number is likely to grow as the population grows, even with the latest advances in safety technology. There are a wide range of factors that cause car accidents, some involving driver error, others that are beyond the driver’s control. Understanding what causes car accidents can help drivers take steps to prevent them from happening.
The following are examples of some of the most common causes of car accidents:
Distracted Driving: This is the number one cause of car accidents in the United States today. In fact, the National Safety Council reported that 25% of all car accidents are attributed to cell phone use. When a driver’s attention is not on the road – even for just a few seconds – a crash can occur. Too many people try to multitask while they are driving, which means their attention is not focused on safe operation of the vehicle. Some of the most common examples of distracted driving include:
- Talking on the phone
- Texting while driving
- Eating
- Applying makeup
- Reaching for something inside the car
- Talking to other passengers
Drunk Driving: Alcohol affects a person’s ability to focus and react to situations quickly, compared to when they are sober. While this is one of the top causes of fatal car accidents, it is also completely avoidable. Always choose a designated driver for the evening, and if you do not have a ride, call a cab or stay with a friend.
Reckless Driving: Driving recklessly puts you and others around you in jeopardy of being seriously injured in a car crash. It is every driver’s responsibility to follow the rules of the road and to make safe choices every time they get behind the wheel. Examples of reckless driving include speeding, tailgating, cutting off other drivers, driving through red lights and stop signs, swerving in and out of lanes, and stopping abruptly.
Drowsy Driving: Driving while fatigued is almost as dangerous as drunk driving. If you have not gotten enough sleep and are having a hard time staying awake while you are driving, pull over if it is safe to do so and try to take a short nap. If that is not possible, try to stop for some fresh air and some coffee.
Defective Auto Parts: When a car has a defect, especially if it affects the brakes, tires, or the steering and suspension systems, it can have very dangerous consequences. For example, if a car blows a tire on a busy highway going 65 miles per hour, it could cause a multi-car accident involving serious injuries.
Hazardous Weather Conditions: Rain, ice, and snow can cause roadways to become wet and slippery, making it more difficult for cars to stop without sliding. Visibility can also become limited by fog, heavy rain or snow, and bright sun glare.
Harford County Car Accident Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Represent Victims of All Types of Car Accidents
If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident, you are urged to contact the reputable Harford County car accident lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton as soon as possible. If the wreck was caused by another driver’s negligence, we will strive to obtain the maximum financial compensation you deserve. To schedule a free, confidential 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 in Maryland, including those in Harford County, which includes the municipalities of Aberdeen, Bel Air, and Havre de Grace.
