A majority of people in the United States often drive to work every day. Commuting to work or completing errands involves using roads, and driving is essential for meeting others, whether in public spaces or private homes. With millions of vehicles on the roads, accidents unfortunately happen. Yet, this doesn’t imply they are unavoidable. Usually, car crashes occur due to at least one driver’s negligence. Those who get injured in an accident can seek compensation from the negligent driver for the harm they endured. Contact an expert like a car accident attorney at Rosenberg & Gluck, LLP, and get help for your car accident case.
5 Examples of Driver Negligence That Lead to Car Accidents
Numerous types of negligence are commonly committed by drivers, including:
1. Disregarding traffic laws
Traffic laws for motor vehicles aim to ensure safe road use. Sadly, many individuals frequently violate these laws, often due to being in a hurry or thinking they can operate their vehicles safely outside legal limits.
Driving over the speed limit often causes car accidents because faster speeds result in longer stopping distances, increasing the likelihood of losing control. Other violations contributing to accidents include running red or yellow lights and making unlawful turns without yielding to other vehicles.
2. Engaging in aggressive driving
Some drivers experience “road rage” when frustrated by heavy traffic or perceived disrespect from other drivers. This frustration may lead them to tailgate, cut off other vehicles, illegally overtake, and engage in behaviors that endanger others. Aggressive driving eventually leads to car accidents.
3. Driving under the influence
Despite the well-known dangers, some individuals choose to drink and drive, believing they can handle alcohol and operate their vehicle without any issues. However, alcohol or drug use can impair judgment, causing blurred vision, delayed reactions, and drowsiness. This impairment makes it unsafe for individuals to drive and increases the risk of causing harm to others.
4. Distracted driving
Distracted driving poses a significant risk on the roadways, with potentially life-threatening consequences. Beyond the peril of using mobile devices, drivers may inadvertently divert attention through various activities like putting on make-up, conversing with passengers, or adjusting vehicle controls.
It’s not just about phones; even eating, drinking, or fiddling with the GPS can make a driver miss important things on the road, like other cars, pedestrians, or even big potholes. This lack of focus amplifies the potential for accidents and compromises road safety.
5. Drowsy driving
Drowsy driving emerges as a pervasive hazard, capable of leading to severe accidents. Fatigue can impair a driver’s reaction time and decision-making abilities, elevating the risk of collisions. Factors contributing to drowsy driving include insufficient sleep, sleep disorders like sleep apnea, or the use of certain medications. If a driver nods off for even a second, they could crash into something – another car, a person, or whatever’s on the road.
So, staying awake and alert while driving is super important to keep everyone safe on the roads. If you’ve been prescribed medication for which drowsiness is a side effect, consider asking a friend or a family member to drive you to your destination. If they’re not available, there’s always ridesharing services like Uber or Lyft.
Contact Expert Car Accident Lawyers
After a car accident, experienced attorneys will do everything in their power to show that another driver was careless. They will help you seek compensation from all available sources, whether through an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit.
The goal of a car accident lawyer is to ensure you get fully compensated for your medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. Reach out to a car accident lawyer today to find out how you can pursue the at-fault party legally.
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