Common Causes of Car Accidents

Most traffic accidents don’t have to do with knowing how to drive a vehicle, but rather which decisions the driver makes behind the wheel. 90% of all road accidents are caused by human error.

A number of drivers will find themselves committing some of the common causes of traffic accidents. However, increased awareness for these causes can educate and influence drivers to be more cautious.

Common Causes of Car Accidents Related to Human Error

• Distracted Driving
  One of the main causes of car accidents can be blamed on distracted driving. When a driver is texting, talking on the phone, grooming, reading, or even eating while driving, the brain switches between tasks and unable to consistently focus on what’s ahead

$6 million for the family of a driver killed by a distracted driver


• Drunk Driving
  According to the CDC, drunk driving is responsible for an average of 29 deaths per day
• Speeding
  Running late to work, keeping up with traffic, or unintentionally driving over the speed limit are of the top causes of speeding-related accidents
• Running Red Lights and Stop Signs
  According to the U.S. Dept of Transportation's Federal Highway Administration, more than 50% of car accidents occur at intersections, with the cause being running a red light or a stop sign
• Reckless Driving
  Switching lanes too quickly, intentionally disregarding the safety and/or property of others, and purposely failing to abide by cautionary measures are some characteristics of reckless driving
• Aggressive Driving
  Aggressive driving includes any combination of traffic offenses that endanger other drivers or property, including speeding
• Fatigue
  Sleepiness, drowsiness, or exhaustion can impair a driver’s ability to competently respond, react, or discern conditions on the road

$5.8 million on behalf of the families of two people killed by a truck driver for the largest milk hauler in the U.S. who fell asleep at the wheel

Common Causes of Car Accidents Unrelated to Human Error

Sometimes the safest, most defensive drivers fall victim to car accidents, but not by way of their own error. Other factors can have a big influence.

• Weather Conditions
  Slippery roads from rain, snow, or ice affect traction in tires, in turn causing vehicles to slide off the road or hit other objects or vehicles. Fog, water levels, and wind speed may also contribute to weather-related accidents
• Road Conditions
  Poorly maintained roadways increase the risk of a popped tire and influence a driver’s ability to brake adequately
• Vehicle Defects
  Cars consist of thousands of parts that keep them running safely and smoothly. It is not uncommon for them to malfunction

If you were seriously injured, or a loved one was tragically killed in a car accident, call the offices of Miller Weisbrod, Attorneys At Law, today at 214.987.0005 or toll free at 888.987.0005 for a free consultation with an experienced Car Accident Attorneys.