Automotive

5 Common Causes of Road Traffic Accidents Every Driver Should Be Aware Of

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Annually, thousands of road traffic accidents are recorded across America, and every single day, there are numerous road traffic accidents occurring. There isn’t anyone cause leading to road traffic accidents. Distracted driving, reduced visibility, speeding, a lack of caution and reckless driving can all cause road traffic accidents. Many road traffic accidents are preventable, but they keep happening. Let’s take a look at five common causes of road traffic accidents that drivers should know.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving claimed more than 3,000 lives in the U.S in 2017. This is arguably the most common cause of road accidents and involves activities that take attention from driving, and can include talking, texting on a cell phone, eating and drinking and adjusting the stereo or navigation system. Safe driving needs to be free from distractions and engaging in any non-driving activity increases the risk of having an accident.

Speeding

While distrated drivers are responsible for many crashes, so are speeders. Speeding is also a top cause of road accidents, but especially a major source of fatal road injuries. Many motorists drive above the speed limit, which is illegal behavior. Speeding greatly increases the risk of a driver losing control of the vehicle and crashing, because a speeding car takes a long time to decelerate. It reduces the chance of being able to prevent a collision. It’s important to stay within the legal speed limits.

Drunk Driving

There are many people who drink and drive and unfortunately, the end result is oftentimes a road traffic accident. Drunk driving is more common during the holidays and at weekends. Driving after drinking alcohol reduces a motorist’s response time and the ability to focus on the road, which increases the risk of an accident occurring. Most U.S states have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) standard of .08%. A BAC over this limit put drivers in a problematic position and are deemed to be driving while intoxicated. Some drivers can be below the mentioned limit and still be significantly affected.

Reckless Driving

Reckless driving covers a number of activities, including speeding, improper lane change lanes or not looking, tailgating other drivers and failing to abide by road signs. This illegal driving habit tends to be reflected in motorists having little regard for the road codes and other motorists. This type of behavior is commonly expressed in motorists that are impatient or driving under the influence of alcohol.

Rain

Rain can be a pain to drive in, but can also cause road accidents. An excessively wet road can cause a vehicle to lose its grip on the road causing it to slide and the driver losing control of the vehicle. An out of control car is one heading for disaster, and if the car is poorly maintained, for example, worn or inflated tires, there is an increased risk of an accident. A downpour can reduce visibility and make it dangerous to drive.

Whether you are the driver, or it’s other motorists, road traffic accidents can happen. It can be a terrifying experience that can lead to catastrophic injuries, but worst of all, death. It is possible to prevent most road accidents and even avoid them, but not everyone is keen on adhering to the road signs and making it a priority to practice safe driving habits. It’s important for drivers to be proactive and cautious when on the roadways.

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