Every time you get behind the wheel of your car, you face a variety of unique situations on the roadway. The traffic, the weather and the other drivers on the road can all mean the difference between getting safely to your collision and experiencing a crash that changes the course of your day. What are some common causes of collisions?
1. Drunk driving
Alcohol significantly impacts a person’s ability to make decisions and respond quickly. That impairment becomes particularly risky when a drunk person gets behind the wheel.
2. Speeding
When drivers choose to step on the gas, they put both themselves and other drivers at risk. Driving too fast can make it difficult for them to safely control their vehicle, respond to hazards or safely make turns and lane changes.
3. Distracted driving
Drivers have a variety of tasks to focus on when they get behind the wheel. They need to manage the information on their dashboard, react to other drivers on the road and keep track of how they will reach their destination. With so much to focus on, a driver’s distraction can make it difficult for them to safely operate their vehicle and put others on the road at risk.
4. Reckless driving
When people make reckless decisions—whether due to road rage or simply a disregard for the rules of the road—it can pose a significant threat to everyone else on the road. Weaving in and out of traffic, ignoring stop signs or traffic lights, ignoring railroad barriers, passing in a no-passing zone or tailgating can increase the risk of a crash. Even choosing to operate a vehicle with known issues or defects is a rash decision, and that vehicle’s failure could lead to an accident.
When a driver’s negligent behavior causes a crash, injured people and their families can take steps to hold them responsible. Phillips & Mille can help injured clients explore their legal options and assist them in recovering damages for their injuries.
