Did you know that car accident are the leading cause of death for people aged 4-34 in the United States? In addition, more than 2.3 million people are injured in car accidents every year.
With numbers like that, it’s essential to know what you can do to stay safe on the road. This blog post will discuss some statistics about car accidents and what you can do to avoid being involved in one.
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Car Accidents are Actually Quite Common
Unfortunately, car accidents are fairly common. In 2015, there were more than six million car accidents in the United States alone. That averages out to about 16,437 accidents per day.
Of those six million accidents, nearly three million resulted in injuries, and close to two-thirds of a million resulted in fatalities. In 2022, it’s estimated that there will be around six and a half million car accidents in the United States.
According to a Salt Lake City personal injury lawyer, we could see an increase in car accidents due to the number of people who are driving while distracted.
With numbers like that, it’s essential to know what you can do to stay safe on the road. This blog post will discuss some statistics about car accidents and what you can do to avoid being involved in one.
There are many Causes of Car Accidents
Car accidents are usually caused by a variety of factors. However, some factors are more common than others. Sometimes, car accidents are caused by weather conditions, like ice or snow.
Other times, they’re caused by driver error, like speeding or driving while distracted. In the paragraphs below, we are going to discuss some of the most common ways one can suffer a car accident.
Speeding
Speeding is one of the most common causes of car accidents. In 2022, it’s estimated that around 28% of car accidents will be caused by speeding. Speeding increases the chances of losing control of your vehicle, and it also increases the severity of an accident if you are involved in one. Finally, speeding makes it more difficult for other drivers to react to a potential accident.
Driving Under the Influence
DUI is another leading cause of car accidents. In 2015, around 29% of all fatal car accidents were caused by a driver who was under the influence of alcohol. If you’re going to be drinking, make sure to have a designated driver or take a cab home. In 2022, it’s estimated that around 32% of all fatal car accidents will be caused by a driver who is under the influence.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is becoming more and more common as our lives become increasingly busy. In 2015, around 16% of car accidents were caused by distracted driving. This includes things like talking on the phone, texting, eating, or fiddling with the radio. In 2022, it’s estimated that around 21% of car accidents will be caused by distracted driving. If you happen to be in a car accident, there are things to do that you should be aware of. So, make sure you are familiar with the protocols, just so you can be safe. To avoid distraction while driving, put your phone away and make sure you’re not fidgeting with anything else in the car.
Reckless Driving
Reckless driving is another leading cause of car accidents. In 2015, around 14% of car accidents were caused by reckless driving. Under this category, we include things like tailgating, running red lights, and even weaving in and out of traffic. In 2022, it’s estimated that around 18% of car accidents will be caused by reckless driving. Reckless driving endangers not only the driver, but also the passengers and other drivers on the road, and can quickly turn into a very serious issue.
Driving in Hazardous Conditions
Driving in hazardous conditions, like heavy rain or snow, is also a leading cause of car accidents. In 2015, around 12% of car accidents were caused by driving in hazardous conditions. In 2022, it’s estimated that around 15% of car accidents will be caused by driving in hazardous conditions. Now, unlike other causes, this is not something that is in our control. However, there are things one can do to minimize the risks of bad weather and hazardous conditions while on the road.
What you can do to Avoid Being in a Car Accident?
Although many accidents are caused by factors that are out of our control, there are things we can do to minimize the chances of being in an accident.
We can’t control the weather, but we can avoid driving in hazardous conditions if possible. We can’t control other drivers, but we can avoid speeding and driving recklessly.
And we can’t always control our own distractions, but we can put away our phones and anything else that might take our attention away from the road. Moreover, being aware of the most common causes of car accidents can help us be more cautious on the road and hopefully avoid being involved in one.
Take Driving Seriously
Many people view driving as simply fun. Although it is, and it can be, it’s also a responsibility. Every time we get behind the wheel, we’re responsible for not only our own safety, but also the safety of others on the road.
This is why it’s so important to take driving seriously and to always be aware of the risks involved. Now, aside from the obvious health hazard, irresponsible driving can bring, it can also lead to some pretty severe legal consequences. This is yet another reason to always be cautious on the road.
Do Things in Advance
Whenever possible, try to do things in advance. This includes things like planning your route, leaving early, and making sure your car is in good working condition. By doing things in advance, you can minimize the chances of being caught in traffic or having to hurry, which can lead to accidents.
Furthermore, make sure you finish all of your phone calls and answer all of the emails and texts before you start driving. If you can’t do that, then pull over to the side of the road in a safe area and do it there. If traveling longer distances, you can always combine driving breaks with finishing your business.
Remember, car accidents are a leading cause of death, so always be cautious on the road. Planning ahead is always a good idea, and it can help you avoid being involved in an accident.
If you are involved in an accident, make sure to get the help of a qualified car accident lawyer to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.