Accidents have serious consequences, from unexpected collision repair to grievous injuries. Knowing what the common causes of accidents are will help you modify your driving behavior to stay safe. If you’re already a perfect driver, it’s helpful to know so you can identify risky behavior in others. Here’s a closer look at the primary causes of car crashes in the United States in recent years. 

These 3 Behaviors Lead to Car Accidents

1. Drunk Driving

Contributing to nearly a third of all vehicle-related fatalities, drinking and driving clearly don’t mix. A DUI charge and expensive collision repair work are only the beginning of the potential consequences. If you plan on drinking, be sure you have a designated driver to get you home, or call a cab. If a friend has been drinking and insists on driving, take their keys to prevent them from making a poor decision. If you believe another motorist is drunk behind the wheel, call the authorities immediately. 

2. Distracted Driving

Anything that takes your focus off the road and your hands off the wheel can be enough to cause an accident — even seemingly minor tasks like adjusting the radio, snacking, or turning your head to talk to a passenger. Cellphones, GPS, and other electronic devices are an increasingly common source of distraction. Hawaii law prohibits the use of handheld mobile devices while driving, but cellphone-related accident rates continue to rise. Avoid injury and costly collision repair by using hands-free devices. 

3. Speeding

You might be late for work, but that doesn’t justify speeding. Historical data shows that approximately 30% of motor vehicle deaths result from speeding. Going over the speed limit greatly increases your risk for rear-ending other vehicles or making a turn without checking for oncoming traffic. 

If you’ve been in a car accident, receiving quality collision repair as soon as possible is essential for getting back on the road. Thankfully, that’s exactly what you’ll get at Basic Auto Collision Team in Honolulu, HI. Their efficient and experienced staff uses a high-tech digital scanner to quickly identify issues that need to be addressed. They offer reliable, honest, and fast repairs. To learn more about how they’ll help you, visit them online or call (808) 842-3966.