Every day, thousands of people are injured in motor vehicle accidents across the United States. Tragically, many accident victims lose their lives in crashes. Although sometimes a motor vehicle crash can happen without warning, in many cases, the causes of motor vehicle accidents are entirely preventable. What are some of the most common reasons for motor vehicle accidents?
The most common cause of motor vehicle accidents is distracted driving. Distracted driving includes a number of behaviors, any of which may result in a driver failing to pay attention while on the road. Texting while driving is especially dangerous because it involves physical, visual, and cognitive distractions: the driver must take his hands off the wheel, the driver must take his eyes off of the road, and the driver must think about the message and/or a response.
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol remains a major problem in the United States. In the face of the current opioid epidemic, thousands of drivers are caught driving under the influence of prescription painkillers every day. Even if these individuals have a prescription for these painkillers, it remains a crime to drive under the influence of any substance that impairs driving. Those who drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol often experience blurred vision, reduced reaction times, and a failure to appreciate risk.
Speeding is also a major cause of motor vehicle accidents. The faster a car is traveling, the more likely it is that a crash will result in serious injuries or death. Drivers should always abide by the speed limit and should reduce their speed in high traffic areas or in inclement weather.
When driving, it can be easy to forget how quickly an accident can happen. Therefore, many drivers engage in risky behaviors, such as changing lanes too quickly, braking suddenly, and cutting other cars off. Reckless driving remains a major cause of collisions in the United States.
In poor weather, it can be tempting to try to get to your destination as quickly as possible. However, in rain, snow, and other types of bad weather, drivers should reduce their speed and practice extra caution. It only takes a small amount of water on the road to cause a vehicle to hydroplane. Black ice can quickly cause a car to lose control and begin spinning. It is easy to forget how dangerous bad weather can be and how quickly it can cause a crash.
Drivers who are negligent and cause accidents must face liability for their actions. These drivers may be responsible for an accident victim’s medical bills, lost wages, and other similar expenses. With the assistance of an experienced injury attorney, accident victims obtain the compensation they deserve.
Free, Instant Case Review – Call 312.422.0500
At Stein & Shulman, we hold negligent drivers accountable for accidents. If you were injured in a vehicle accident in Illinois, contact Stein & Shulman, LLC, today to discuss your legal options with a skilled car crash injury attorney in Chicago. You can schedule a case consultation at no cost to you by calling our office at (312) 422-050 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Stein & Shulman, LLC
134 N LaSalle St, #820
Chicago, IL 60602
312.422.0500
Hours: We are Open 24/7
Directions to Our Office
