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The Most Common
Causes of Traffic Accidents The first known fatal traffic crash claimed a 44-year-old female pedestrian on 17 August 1896 in London. The coroner investigating the fatality is known to have stated "This must never happen again". Since that date, more than 25 million people have died in auto related accidents (World Health Organization) and this sadly has become the leading cause of death among people aged 3-33. We know that traffic fatalities are real and they are going to happen. We also know what the most common causes of traffic crashes are. One who pays particular attention to these causes and is careful to avoid them has a better chance of staying on the positive side of the traffic statistics. |
| The most common
cause of traffic crashes are distracted drivers. As many as half of
all accidents are caused by drivers inattentiveness to the task at hand.
Slowing down to look at another accident, cell phone use, driver fatigue,
passenger distractions, applying make-up and adjusting the radio or
CD player are all common causes of traffic crashes. Drunk Driving is high on the list of most common causes of traffic accidents. In 2004 almost 17,000 people were killed in accidents where alcohol was a factor. Speeding. Driving too fast for the traffic conditions poses a two pronged threat: It reduces the amount of time available to avoid a crash, and because of the higher speeds, makes the crash more severe. The energy released in a crash at 60 mph, is more than double a crash at 40 mph. Following posted speed limit signs and driving based on traffic conditions, certainly saves lives. Aggressive driving is next on the list of most common causes of traffic accidents. Tailgating, blocking other cars from changing lanes, ignoring traffic signals and failure to yield to oncoming traffic are all statistically great ways to be involved in a car accident. Poor weather conditions can make driving safely very difficult. When the road is wet or icy or when rain impairs your vision leave extra space between you and car in front of you. If the weather conditions become severe, pull off the road until conditions improve. Understanding the leading causes of traffic accidents is the first step in preventing them. No amount of caution will ever eliminate all traffic crashes however. If you are involved in an accident, know your rights! Contact an experienced Auto Accident Attorney who will work in your best interests to protect you. |
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