Every year hundreds of thousands of people in the United States are seriously injured or die as the result of an auto accident. In fact, auto accidents are the leading cause of preventable deaths among people aged 3 to 33 in America. While these statistics are shocking to say the least, it is perhaps more important to note that the majority of auto accidents should never occur. There are many different reasons car accidents take place and it is important that we educate ourselves on some of the top causes in order to adopt safer driving practices ourselves.
Here is a look at the leading causes of auto accidents in the United States:
- Distracted Drivers – There are many different types of distractions that can affect a person’s driving, including eating, smoking, listening to loud music, talking on the phone, reaching for objects, looking or talking with passengers, and taking your eyes off the road
- Speeding – Failing to adhere to the posted speed limit is one of the most common causes of traffic accidents in the United States
- Texting While Driving – As texting and smartphones in general have risen in popularity, so have the number of accidents that occur because of drivers using these devices
- Driver Fatigue – Many auto accidents take place because of driver fatigue or falling asleep at the wheel. Whether due to pushing your limits and driving for too long or a lack of sleep, this is one of the leading causes of car crashes
- Drunk Driving – Driving under the influence of alcohol results in a 900% increase in the probability of an auto accident, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
- Rubbernecking – This happens when drivers are focusing on other things on the road instead of their driving. This could be watching other accidents, checking out the sunset, or someone walking alongside the road
- Defective Car Parts – Tire defects, seatbelt defects, and defective airbags are some of the most common auto defects that result in serious injuries.
- Weather – Icy roads, high winds, and snow pose some of the greatest dangers to drivers
- Construction – Poor roadway construction has been connected with numerous auto accident fatalities
- Aggressive Driving or Road Rage – This could include tailgating, flashing lights at other drivers, rude gestures, verbal abuse, or deliberating preventing another driver from certain actions
As you can see, there are many different causes of auto accidents, many of which are preventable. If you have been involved in an auto accident due to the negligence or aggressiveness of another driver in Oklahoma, please contact AMA Law today.