We’re all human, and we all make mistakes. Nevertheless, our human error can get us into sticky situations. Based on reportable crashes in 2021, The Texas Department of Transportation states 1 person was killed every 1 hours and 57 minutes, 1 person was injured every 2 minutes and 12 seconds, and there was 1 reportable crash occurring every 57 seconds. There are millions of people traveling on Texas roads daily, and we can do our part to avoid the most common causes of car accidents by keeping a few things in mind.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is one of the most common causes of car accidents, and it is also one of the most preventable. There are various types of distracted driving. Most people think distracted driving is limited to texting while driving, changing music or other settings, putting on make-up, eating food, or doing anything else you have to take your hands off the wheel for. However, driving requires our complete attention and focus—even daydreaming is considered distracted driving.
Distracted driving can be manual, cognitive, and visual. Manual distractions cause you to take one or both hands off the wheel; cognitive distractions cause you to lack the ability to focus; and visual distractions cause your eyes to wander off the road. Texting while driving, for example, is a combination of all three: reading a text, thinking about what you are going to type, and typing a reply. A combination of various types of distracted driving can be extremely dangerous, so it is important to keep both hands on the wheel, stay alert, and focus on the road.
When we drive, we are not only responsible for our own life, but other drivers as well. Although we cannot prevent other drivers from driving irresponsibly, keeping both hands on the wheel, staying alert, and focusing on the road can help you avoid car collisions with distracted drivers because you will have a better ability to react to a potential situation.
Alcohol
Drinking while driving and driving while drunk can have serious consequences: car accidents and/or a DWI. Alcohol-related car accidents are another major cause of car collisions in Texas. Alcohol related car accidents are also completely avoidable. When you want to drink, always have a plan to get you to and from your destinations: designated driver, ride share, call a friend, spend the night, etc. Do not get behind the wheel or let someone who has been driving get behind the wheel of the car. It is not worth it!
Excessive Speed and Tailgating
There are speed limits for a reason! In 2021, speeding contributed to over 160,000 car accidents in Texas. When someone drives at an excessive speed, it becomes harder to control the vehicle and avoid potential situations. Accidents caused by excessive speed have more catastrophic consequences—totaled cars, severe injury, and death—and they are preventable. Here are a few tips to avoid speeding accidents:
- Follow the Three-Second Rule: create a safe distance between you and the car in front of you.
- Give yourself plenty of time to arrive at your destination.
- Practice patience.
- Do not drive when you are upset.
All of these common causes of car accidents are completely preventable. It is important to stay mindful, and to remember driving is a responsibility! Stop at redlights and stop signs, use your blinker, and keep these few tips in mind the next time you are about to head to your next destination!
If you find yourself in a car accident, know that you can turn to Tessmer Law Firm PLLC. Our experienced and qualified attorneys know your struggles and frustrations and want to help you on your legal journey. Reach out or call 210-368-9708 today for more information on what we can do for you.