While mechanical problems and dangerous road conditions make some auto accidents unavoidable, most are caused by the negligence of a driver. Sometimes, a moment’s inattention or a single mistake is all it takes to cause an accident that could alter someone’s life forever. According to Gary C. Mitchell, P.C., a prominent Ruidoso, New Mexico, personal injury lawyer, the most common causes of auto accidents are entirely avoidable.

4 Factors That Cause Auto Accidents

1. Texting & Driving

Texting occupies your hands and pulls your attention away from the road, leaving you unable to respond to sudden changes in traffic. Every year, nearly 400,000 people are injured or even killed in accidents related to texting and driving.

2. Driving Under the Influence

Drugs and alcohol impair a driver’s judgment, slow reaction times, and make accidents more likely. Because intoxicated drivers are often speeding and can’t slow down in time, the accidents they cause are often more serious than other crashes.

3. Speeding

Excessive speeding makes responding to other vehicles changing lanes, cars pulling into traffic, and other situations almost impossible. Most of the accidents in which speeding was a factor could have been avoided if the driver had obeyed posted speed limits.

4. Falling Asleep at the Wheel

If you’re too tired to drive, playing the radio loud or turning up the AC won’t keep you awake. The only safe approach is to pull over and take a nap before you lose control of your vehicle completely.

If you or a loved one is hurt by a negligent driver, a skilled personal injury lawyer will fight for your rights and help collect the compensation you deserve. Gary C. Mitchell, P.C. has been serving New Mexico accident victims since 1977, establishing a reputation for aggressive representation and achieving results. Visit their website to learn more about their background and expertise, or call (575) 257-3070 to schedule a consultation with a personal injury lawyer.