In Georgia, car accidents can happen at any time and are not always avoidable. However, drivers can prevent many of the top accidents caused by knowing what usually causes them and choosing to drive more safely. Reducing car accidents can prevent injuries, fatalities and property damage while keeping the streets safer for drivers, passengers and pedestrians. The following six causes contribute to a large majority of car accidents.
1. Distracted driving
Anything that takes your eyes off the road while driving can cause a distracted driving accident. Typical distractions include using a cell phone, eating or drinking, putting on makeup or conversing with passengers.
2. Speeding
Speeding increases accident risk by reducing a driver’s time to respond to an unexpected situation. Even very experienced drivers can find they don’t have enough time to react. Drivers who drive too fast for the existing road conditions, such as rain or snow, also increase their risk of getting into an accident. When drivers exceed the speed limit, they can lose control of the car, such as taking corners or freeway off-ramps faster than the posted speed limit.
3. Bad weather
Poor weather, such as fog, icy roads, rain or snow, contributes to hazardous driving conditions. To prevent a motor vehicle accident (MVA), drivers should reduce speed, leave more space between themselves and other cars and use appropriate lighting for the weather conditions.
4. Driving while under the influence
Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is not only highly dangerous but also illegal. A driver loses their ability to react quickly and pay full attention to the road while drunk or on drugs. Fatigue is another common accident cause, and it can impair drivers almost as much as driving under the influence.
5. Poor vehicle maintenance
Regular vehicle maintenance keeps your car in good operating condition. If not maintained, your brakes can fail and cause you to lose control of your vehicle. Faulty tires or other car parts can also contribute to accidents.
6. Reckless driving
Reckless driving endangers the driver, their passengers and others on the road. It can lead to severe accidents and involves tailgating and weaving in and out of cars on crowded highways.
Knowing the most common causes of car accidents can help drivers operate their vehicles more safely for their and others’ benefit.
