In the United States, more than 1.6 million auto accident-related injuries and fatalities occur each year, including almost 90% of the fatalities. Knowing what’s behind these staggering statistics is important because you can take steps to avoid car accidents. You can read more here about the common causes of auto accidents in Louisville.
The common causes of auto accidents in Louisville include:
- Speeding
Speeding can double the risk of a fatal accident. In fact, if you’re driving more than 25 miles per hour over the speed limit, you may easily lose control of your car. That’s why it’s important to obey all highway traffic signs, and use common sense when traveling at high speeds. Remember that speeding thrills, but also kills!
- Tailgating
Tailgating is also a major factor in traffic accidents throughout the U.S. Almost 15% of all auto accident fatalities are the result of tailgating. The problem is that some drivers believe they can swerve at the last minute to avoid hitting another car, if they get too close behind. However, drivers who get too close can’t swerve and instead, may slam on their brakes or hit the car in front.
- Failure to yield
Failure to yield, especially at intersections, is another common cause of auto accidents. The problem is that some drivers don’t want to stop or slow down to yield the right of way. And the result? They may plow into the vehicle that has the right of way!
- Intoxicated driving
It may surprise you to learn that 1 in 5 traffic accidents involve alcohol. Drunk driving is a major cause of auto accidents and injuries. Intoxicated driving can lead to fatal accidents. So, it’s important to be aware of the dangers and avoid getting behind the wheel after drinking.
- Fatigued driving
Driving tired is another major cause of auto accidents. The problem is that some drivers take themselves too seriously and set impossibly high standards for themselves. The result? They drive too fast, drive too far, and make poor decisions.
- Distracted driving
Driving distractions can take your attention away from the road. As a result, you may not notice hazards and have difficulty controlling your vehicle. It can lead to fatal car accidents too. Distracted driving includes using cell phones while driving, texting while behind the wheel, and other distractions that take your attention away from the road, such as setting GPS, adjusting the volume of the music player, etc.