As per the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), over 38,000 US car accident fatalities occur annually. The road fatality rate in the United States is 12.4 deaths per 100,000 people.
Fatal car accidents can happen with a single car or with two or more cars. Whereas many people die in car accidents, many more die later due to injuries sustained in the incident. Even more, people are permanently disabled as a consequence of their injury. Road traffic accidents are the top cause of death in the United States for people aged 1 to 54.
Having a better understanding of why so many people die in car accidents will assist you in avoiding one.
What Are The Most Prevalent Causes Of Fatal Vehicle Crashes?
Distracted driving is the leading cause of fatal auto collisions. This is particularly true amongst drivers between the ages of 15 and 20. Distractions can take various forms, including grabbing something on the floor, peering out the window, fiddling with the stereo, or responding to a text message or phone call.
Because distracted driving is now such a big source of accidents, most jurisdictions have made it a crime to use a cell phone or participating in other distracting activities when driving. In addition, most states restrict the use of hands-free cell phones to drivers within a certain age.
Speeding is another major contributor to the incidence of deadly accidents. The speedier a car moves, the more probable there may be fatalities in a collision. Males, particularly young men and teens, are more likely than females to be involved in a fatal auto collision. This is often exacerbated by engaging in other risky stunts while driving, for instance, driving under the influence.
Other prominent causes that contribute to fatal car accidents include:
- Driving while upset or sleepy
- Failure to wear seatbelts
- Driving in an unstable vehicle
- Driving during perilous road conditions and at night
Considering the above-mentioned causes of car accidents, it is evident that most of these are avoidable.
How To Avoid A Fatal Automobile Collision?
According to NHTSA research, the majority of car crashes occur on weekends, amid workday rush-hour traffic, as well as during holidays, when so many people travel considerable distances to see friends and family. Therefore, driving with additional caution during these periods can aid avoid a collision.
Other techniques to lower your likelihood of being involved in a car accident include:
- Never drink and drive, and never take any prescription drug that might impair your driving skills.
- Switch off your mobile (or use a hands-free cell if permitted to do so). Never text while driving.
- Always ensure that everybody in the vehicle has a functional seatbelt
- Follow all traffic and road signals, and never go faster than the legal speed limit
- Match your driving speed and style to the weather and road conditions
- Avoid driving in severe snow, rain, and other inclement weather
You may dramatically reduce your risks of getting involved in a deadly vehicle accident by adhering to the rules and regulations, exercising defensive driving, and utilizing common sense.
Contact Ponton Law
Losing a loved one in a fatal car accident is a tragic and traumatic event. Besides dealing with the grief, the bereaved families may face unexpected financial constraints. Consulting with a lawyer might be the last thing on your mind, but it may be the most recommendable thing to do, especially if another party is liable for the accident that caused the wrongful death.
The attorneys at Ponton Law firm have the resources and experiences necessary for handling cases of wrongful death caused by fatal car collisions. Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation today to talk with an experienced Atlanta car accident attorney.