Car accidents have become an increasingly common occurrence on our roads, unfortunately leading to death or severe injury. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were over 37,000 fatal car crashes in 2016 and a major injury in the U.S. approximately every 14 seconds. With such an increase in accidents, it’s important to identify the top causes so that you can take the proper precautions to protect yourself and others. In this article, we will explore the top 5 causes of car accidents, and how to avoid them.

1. Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is one of the biggest causes of car accidents. Between texting and driving, talking on a cell phone, adjusting the GPS and the radio and more, it’s easy to see how and why distracted driving has become so prevalent. According to the American Psychological Association, distracted driving is a “substantial public health risk”, with more than 3,500 deaths occurring annually due to cell phone use while driving. To avoid becoming a statistic, keep your hands on the wheel, eyes on the road and mind focused on driving.

2. Driving Under The Influence

Although drunk driving crashes have decreased in recent years, they still remain a major cause of fatal car accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that ingesting alcohol before driving caused nearly 13, 000 yearly fatalities in 2018. The NHTSA also found that consuming narcotics increased the risk of a fatal accident by almost three times. Therefore, it goes without saying that the number one rule, when it comes to driving is not to drink and drive – or take drugs and drive.

3. Speeding

Speeding is often a contributing factor in car accidents. According to the CDC, speeding was a contributing factor in a substantial number of fatal crashes in 2016, with over 10,000 fatalities from excessive speeding. Speeding not only increases your chance of being involved in an accident, but it also increases the severity of the crash, as you are more likely to suffer from severe injuries if you are traveling at a higher speed. Therefore, it is important to keep within the speed limit, and take your time on the roads to avoid being involved in an accident.

4. Reckless Driving

Reckless driving can be defined as the “operation of a vehicle in a manner that is dangerous or heedless to the rights or safety of persons or property,” according to the NHTSA. Common examples of reckless driving include aggressive driving, running red lights and stop signs, cutting in front of other vehicles and over taking on solid lines. Such behavior can be extremely dangerous, and can lead to catastrophic consequences if involved in an accident.

5. Weather Conditions

Weather conditions can have a huge impact on the safety of driving. In fact, the NHTSA estimates that over half a million car accidents occur due to adverse weather conditions every year. Rain and fog can significantly reduce visibility for drivers, whereas snow, ice and other rough conditions can make the roads slippery. Therefore, it is important to slow down when driving in wet, icy or foggy conditions, and to be extra cautious so you can remain safe.

“It is essential that drivers are aware of the safety risks associated with driving and abide by the rules of the road, as this can be the only way to reduce the number of car accidents occurring every year.”

In conclusion, car accidents are a major cause of death and injury, however by familiarizing yourself with the top causes of car accidents, you can take the right steps to protect yourself and avoid being involved in an accident. Avoid driving while distracted, under the influence, or recklessly and take the extra precautions when driving in bad weather conditions.

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