Car accidents can occur anywhere at any time, making it challenging to pinpoint an exact cause. However, determining the cause and contributing factors to a car accident, especially in a bustling city like Baltimore, is essential for the recovery process.
A car accident lawyer, such as those at Zirkin & Schmerling Law firm in Maryland, needs to assess liability for the crash to help victims recover maximum compensation for their injuries and other losses. Police reports are often invaluable in uncovering crash-related issues such as the following.
Teen Drivers
Drivers aged 16 through 19 are most at risk for a crash compared to all other age groups. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 2,163 teens in the U.S. were killed, and 243,243 were rushed to the ER for serious injuries due to motor vehicle crashes in 2013.
Young drivers aged 15 through 24 comprise just 14% of the U.S. population, yet they are responsible for 30% of the total costs stemming from motor vehicle crashes. This statistic highlights the significant risk factors for accidents involving teens.
Male teens represent the highest risk, and this risk increases further when male passengers are in the car. The presence of passengers of either sex in a car driven by a teen driver is also a significant risk factor for a crash. This could be because teens are more likely to engage in risky driving behaviors when their peers are present and/or because passengers are a considerable source of distraction while driving. The risk of car accidents associated with teen drivers is also attributed to their relative inexperience with handling a car.
Driving Distractions
In addition to the distracting influence of passengers, many other sources of distraction can contribute to car accidents. It’s common knowledge that cellphones, GPS devices, and other electronic gadgets can easily distract a driver. However, many other activities can be incredibly distracting, such as eating and drinking, grooming, rubbernecking at crash sites and billboards, reaching for fallen objects, and even daydreaming. These distractions significantly increase the risk of car accidents, making them a leading cause of intersection accidents.
Cell Phone Use
Using a cellphone while driving is one of the most dangerous distractions.
Whether it’s texting, calling, or using a navigation app, taking your eyes off the road for even a few seconds can result in a severe accident. It is important to put your phone away while driving a vehicle for the safety of you and other people on the road.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2018 alone, 2,841 lives were lost due to distracted driving, emphasizing the critical need to minimize distractions while on the road.
Eating and Drinking
Eating and drinking while driving can also be hazardous. The action of handling food or beverages takes a driver’s attention away from the road. Spills can lead to sudden movements and loss of control, significantly increasing the risk of an accident. It’s best to avoid consuming anything while driving to maintain full focus on the road.
Daydreaming
Daydreaming or letting your mind wander while driving is another significant risk factor. When a driver’s mind is not on the task at hand, reaction times slow, and the likelihood of missing crucial changes in the traffic environment increases. Staying mentally engaged and aware of the surroundings is vital for safe driving.
Busy Roadways
Another factor that can increase the risk of a crash is a very busy roadway. Experienced drivers know that they ought to exercise greater caution during rush hour traffic, but sometimes even the most cautious of drivers can forget to check a blind spot before changing lanes.
During rush hour, it’s particularly important to actively and continuously monitor the changing traffic patterns. The sheer volume of vehicles can lead to frequent stops, starts, and sudden lane changes, all of which elevate the risk of car accident.
Intersection Accidents
Intersections are common sites for accidents due to the convergence of multiple traffic flows and the necessity for drivers to make quick decisions.
The leading cause of intersection accidents is often attributed to drivers failing to yield the right of way, running red lights, or making improper turns. These actions can result from impatience, misjudgment, or distraction, making intersections one of the most hazardous areas on the road.
Speeding
Speeding is a significant contributor to car accidents.
Driving at high speeds reduces the driver’s ability to react promptly to sudden changes or obstacles on the road. It also increases the severity of collisions when they occur.
According to the NHTSA, speeding was a contributing factor in 26% of all traffic fatalities in 2018. Adhering to posted speed limits and adjusting speed according to road conditions can help mitigate this risk.
Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is another leading cause of car accidents. Impaired drivers have reduced reaction times, impaired judgment, and decreased motor coordination.
The CDC reports that in 2016, nearly 10,500 people died in alcohol-impaired driving crashes, accounting for 28% of all traffic-related deaths in the United States. Ensuring that drivers are sober is crucial for road safety.
Weather Conditions
Adverse weather conditions such as rain, snow, fog, and ice can significantly increase the risk of car accidents. Wet or icy roads reduce tire traction, making it harder to control the vehicle. Limited visibility due to fog or heavy rain also poses a significant hazard. Drivers should always adjust their driving behavior according to weather conditions, including reducing speed and increasing following distance.
Fatigue
Driving while fatigued can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol. Fatigue slows reaction times, decreases awareness, and impairs judgment.
The National Sleep Foundation reports that driving after being awake for 18 hours is comparable to driving with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.05%. Ensuring adequate rest before long trips and taking regular breaks can help reduce the risk of fatigue-related accidents.
Zirkin & Schmerling Car Accident Attorneys
Understanding the common causes of car accidents and the associated risk factors for accidents is crucial for improving road safety and preventing future collisions. Teen drivers, driving distractions, busy roadways, speeding, driving under the influence, adverse weather conditions, sleep deprivation, and fatigue are all significant contributors to car accidents.
By recognizing these factors and taking proactive measures to address them, drivers can reduce their risk of car accidents and contribute to safer roads for everyone.
In Baltimore and beyond, this awareness is essential for both preventing accidents and ensuring that victims receive the compensation they deserve. By staying informed and vigilant, drivers can help mitigate the risks and keep our roads safer.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, contact Zirkin & Schmerling Law firm in Maryland at 410-753-4611. Our experienced attorneys are here to help you navigate the recovery process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.