Louisiana residents put more than 10,000 miles per year on their cars and trucks. This number is lower than many other states but is still significant. Being on the road that much increases the chances of being involved in an auto accident.
Most drivers have been involved in an auto accident at some point in their lives. Millions of accidents happen every year,and it is estimated that American drivers will be involved in an accident about once every 18 years. That may not seem high, but when any of those accidents could involve serious injuries or death, the numbers become much more troubling.
If drivers understand the common causes of car accidents, they will be able to drive safer on the roads and avoid becoming statistics.
What Are the Common Causes of Car Accidents?
Car wrecks happen for a long list of reasons, but here are some of common causes of car accidents:
Distracted/Inattentive Driving: Modern technology, particularly smart phones, has given us a way to pass the time and to always be accessible. However, this also provides a prime source for distraction (whether through making calls, checking emails, or sending text messages) that can, and often does, lead to accidents. Other forms of distraction include looking for things, reading, changing music and other settings in the car, or something as simple as daydreaming
Impaired Driving: Studies show that almost 300,000 incidents of drunk driving per day in the United States. This is a scary proposition for the other drivers on the road. Drunk driving poses grave dangers to the drunk driver, others on the road, and pedestrians. Drivers under the influence of illegal drugs and other controlled substances are similarly dangerous.
Reckless Driving: Reckless driving takes many forms, such as speeding, driving too aggressively, following too close, and disregarding other drivers. Drivers should be mindful of others on the road and should operate their vehicles in a responsible manner.
Road Conditions: As everyone in New Orleans knows, weather conditions turn quickly. Indeed, we have to deal with rain that seems to come out of nowhere. Slick or icy roads increase the chances for an accident and significantly increase the dangers posed by other irresponsible driving behavior.
Vehicle Problems: Even a responsible driver can get in an accident if his or her vehicle has not been properly maintained. Tire and brake failure are among the common types of vehicle problems that lead to accidents. Drivers should do their best to keep their vehicles in safe condition before going on the road.
Call a New Orleans Car Accident Attorney
Drivers can help to minimize the chance that they will be involved in a car wreck by understanding the common causes of car accidents and avoiding those situations. But even doing your best to be a safe driver sometimes often isn’t enough because of other drivers on the road and their irresponsible behavior.
If you or a loved one is injured in a Louisiana auto accident, The Mahone Firm is here to help. Call a New Orleans personal injury attorney at (504) 564-7342 today.
