The Most Common Causes of Car Accidents in Central Florida

Main Causes of Orlando Car Accidents

Even with the increased emphasis on automobile safety and the crash-avoidance features in today’s vehicles, car accidents continue to occur. By understanding the most common causes of car accidents, we can make every effort to prevent them. Driver error is by far the largest single cause of car accidents in the United States, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Driver error is most commonly caused by distracted driving, often involving the use of cell phones. 25% of all automobile crashes are related to cell phone use, whether by talking or texting, according to the National Safety Council (NSC).

Below our Orlando car accident Lawyers have added some common causes of car accidents:

1. Speeding. Nearly one-third of all car accidents are the result of speeding. The faster a vehicle travels, the less time a driver has to react. In addition, personal injuries are far worse in crashes at high speeds.
2. Drunk driving. When you drink and drive, your decision making ability is compromised and you lose the ability to react to situations. Every 53 minutes someone is killed by a drunk driver. Every two minutes, someone is injured by this completely preventable crime.
3. Bad weather conditions. Rainfall and other dangerous weather conditions create slick surfaces and increase the risk of losing control of your vehicle. Slow down or better yet, avoid driving during dangerous weather conditions.
4. Teen drivers. In 2013 alone, 2,927 people were killed and 371,645 people were injured in teen driver accidents. Teach your teen driver to be diligent while behind the wheel and never drive distracted. Driving is a responsibility not a privilege.
5. Night driving. Driving at night doubles your risk of having an accident. A driver’s ability to scan the area for potential problems is limited. Night drivers are also more likely to experience fatigue, which can lead to accidents. Avoid driving at night if at all possible.
6. Reckless driving. Reckless driving is more than just speeding. This includes drivers who change lanes too quickly, tailgaters, impatient drivers, road rage, etc.
7. Poorly maintained vehicles and design defects. Vehicle malfunctions can result in serious accidents. Not having your vehicle properly maintained can also result in unnecessary accidents. Take your car in for routine check-ups and stay up to date on vehicle recalls.
8. Unsafe lane changes. Use your turn signal, check your blind spots and proceed carefully when changing lanes. Be a defensive driver. Do not drive in blind spots and stay away from bad drivers.

Related Resources

• Common Causes of Car Accidents – nolo.com
• About Drunk Driving – madd.org

Everyone Can Be A Safe Driver!

If you or a loved one have been injured in a car crash due to someone else’s negligence, it is important that you contact an experienced Orlando car accident attorney, immediately. The insurance company will not automatically pay you the settlement you deserve. At the law office of Michael T. Gibson, our dedicated team of attorneys will fight on your behalf to get you the compensation you deserve to cover your medical bills, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, etc. following your car accident.