Most Common Causes of Motor Vehicle Accidents
Though auto accidents occasionally result from intentional behavior, virtually all motor-vehicle-accident-injury claims are based on negligence, which requires proof of cause. According to statistics gathered by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the most common cause of motor vehicle accidents is operator or driver error.
Some Factors That Lead to Driver Error
A number of circumstances cause drivers to make mistakes that lead to car crashes:
- Distracted driving—Far and away, the most frequent cause of driver error is distraction—the person driving the vehicle takes his eyes or focus off the road and misses a stop sign or light, drifts into another lane, or fails to see the car in from of him. Using a handheld device is now a common distraction—talking, texting, or even responding to an e-mail while driving. According to the National Safety Council, about one-fourth of all motor vehicle accidents in the United States are caused in part by cell phone use. Other common distractions include the car stereo, passengers in the vehicle, eating or drinking while driving, and roadside attractions.
- Driver fatigue—Crashes frequently happen because the driver is operating the vehicle without adequate rest. Lack of sleep negatively affects your reaction time and is comparable to driving while intoxicated or under the influence.
- Drunk driving or operating a vehicle under the influence of pharmaceutical products—According to the NHTSA, about 40% of all auto accident deaths involve alcohol abuse. Alcohol is a depressant that slows down your reaction time, compromises your vision, and often leads to bad decision-making.
- Excessive speed—Among younger drivers, speeding is the most common cause of accidents. Speeding makes it more difficult to take evasive action when driving in inclement weather or when another motorist pulls in front of you
Contact Howard D. Popper, P.C.
For a free initial consultation to discuss your options after a motor vehicle accident, contact our office online or call 973-993-8787 to set up an appointment. We have offices in Morristown and Newton. Currently, all our client communications are by phone, text message, or online videoconference.
We handle all motor vehicle accident claims on a contingent-fee basis. You won’t pay any attorney fees unless we recover damages for your losses.