Common Causes of Car Accidents – and Ways to Avoid Them

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Common Causes of Car Accidents – and Ways to Avoid Them

09/12/2022

Car accidents are an increasingly common source of injuries and loss of property and life. Every year, there are estimated to be over six million car accidents, in the US alone. We drive everywhere, and even short distances pose a hazard to drivers, as well as pedestrians and people on bicycles. The loss of property in these accidents can be considerable. Here are some of the most common car accident causes, and what you might be able to do to avoid them.



Rear-End Collisions

Approximately twenty-nine percent of all car accidents are the result of rear-end collisions, including two-car and “pile-ups,” where multiple cars are involved. This type of accident means that you have hit another car behind, or they have done so to you, or, if you’re in the middle of a pile-up, both happen to you – often due to no fault of your own. The easiest way to avoid a rear-end collision is:

  • Concentrate on the road in front of you, and
    don’t get distracted
  • Keep an eye on the traffic around you, noting
    speed changes
  • Keep three car lengths, or three seconds behind
    the vehicle in front of you; allow for more space in the case of bad driving
    conditions
  • Don’t drive impaired – meaning alcohol, drugs,
    or fatigue or sleepiness – all of these have a high likelihood of causing an
    accident

Crashes at Intersections

Intersections can be a source of confusion, especially if street lights are out or if not everyone is following the rules, in the case of multiple stop signs – especially a four-way stop. These accidents can include t-boning (where one car head-on hits another car’s side) or rear-end collisions, as well as pile-ups. To avoid an intersection crash:

  • Stay alert – this is a good tip always, but
    especially anywhere you aren’t familiar with
  • Keep an eye out for pedestrians (who have right
    of way)
  • Don’t rely on the traffic light – look both ways
    when driving to ensure no one else is running a light

Blind-Spot-Related Accidents

Most automobiles have some kind of blind spot, so it stands to reason that they are a common cause of many car accidents each year. They are almost entirely avoidable, as well, despite the commonality of the blind spot itself. If you can’t see out of part of your automobile, you have to drive accordingly. Preventing blind-spot related accidents starts with:

  • Check your blind spots first (even if you have
    cameras) – make sure nothing is missed and that all pathways are clear
  • Learn your blind spots before heading out on the
    road – this is part of attentive driving

Defensive Driving is the Best Driving

The smartest way to avoid being the cause of a car accident is to drive defensively. Keep an eye out for everyone and everything else, and follow traffic laws. If you’re unfortunate enough to be involved in a car accident, contact RS Law Offices to consult on your case and get you the best possible results.

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