Car accidents often happen without warning, leaving Tennessee residents dazed and injured. Unfortunately, many of these situations are avoidable.
Distracted driving
Distracted driving ranks as one of the major causes of car accidents. When a person performs other tasks behind the wheel such as cell phone use, eating, fiddling with controls, conversing with passengers or even daydreaming, it could have devastating results. All of these activities significantly reduce a driver’s judgment, reaction time and general ability to control the vehicle.
Speeding
Speeding or racing puts everyone on the road at risk of a crash and severe injuries. Even driving a few miles per hour above the legal speed limit can make it more difficult to recognize danger and stop in time to avoid it. Whether a driver is running late to a destination or showing off, there’s no excuse for speeding and putting people’s lives at risk.
Driving under the influence
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is another big cause of car accidents. Some drivers are repeat offenders while others think they’re OK to get behind the wheel after consuming a single drink. Unfortunately, it’s possible for drivers to become intoxicated even after consuming small amounts of alcohol or taking certain legally prescribed medications.
Reckless driving
Reckless driving is a serious problem that puts everyone at risk. It includes activities such as speeding, tailgating, ignoring road signals and traffic laws, failing to yield the right of way and erratically weaving in and out of lanes. Reckless driving can lead to a crash and catastrophic injuries or even death to other drivers, passengers and pedestrians.
Car accidents are inevitable, but you can reduce your risk by being responsible and alert while behind the wheel.