Causes of Car Accidents in Sonoma County

Car accidents are a common occurrence in the United States and unfortunately, they can lead to serious injuries and fatalities. In 2019, over 36,000 people died in motor vehicle crashes, and another 4.4 million were injured. Knowing the most common causes of car accidents and how to avoid them can help you stay safe on the roads.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents. It occurs when a driver takes their attention away from the task of driving to focus on another activity. Common distractions include texting and talking on the phone, eating and drinking, grooming, looking at a GPS, and adjusting the radio. To avoid distracted driving, turn off your phone or put it on silent and place it out of reach while driving.

Driving Under the Influence

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal in all 50 states and it can have serious consequences. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, an average of 30 people die in alcohol-impaired driving crashes every day in the United States. To avoid driving under the influence, always have a designated driver or take public transportation when you plan on drinking.

Speeding

Speeding is another common cause of car accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, speeding is a factor in about one-third of all fatal car accidents in the United States. To avoid speeding, always obey the speed limit and leave plenty of time to reach your destination so that you don’t feel rushed.

Reckless Driving

Reckless driving is when a driver operates their vehicle in a manner that endangers other people or property. This can include speeding, running red lights, making illegal turns, tailgating, and weaving in and out of traffic. To avoid reckless driving, always drive defensively and be aware of your surroundings.

Fatigue

Fatigue is another common cause of car accidents. It occurs when a driver is too tired to pay attention to the road or react quickly in an emergency situation. To avoid fatigue, make sure to get enough sleep before driving and take regular breaks if you’re driving long distances.

At the Flahavan Law Offices, we understand the devastating effects of car accidents. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, our experienced team of personal injury attorneys can help. We have extensive experience in handling car accident cases and will fight to get you the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.