According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were a total of 7,277,000 motor vehicle accidents in the U.S. in 2016, 29.9% of which resulted in non-fatal car injuries. This statistic is a reminder of how common car accidents are and how important it is to exercise caution whenever you are behind the wheel. Below is a list of some of the top reasons for car accidents and what you can do to avoid them.

4 Leading Car Accident Causes in the U.S.

1. Impaired Driving

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 29 Americans die each day in car crashes that involve alcohol-impaired drivers. Operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, as well as driving when extremely fatigued or impaired by a medication that causes drowsiness, diminishes a person’s driving skills and clouds their judgment. In addition to putting themselves and everyone around them at risk, an impaired driver may also face DUI charges, which can include steep fines and jail time.

2. Distracted Driving

Distracted driving took the lives of 2,841 Americans in 2018. While there are many actions that can distract a driver and leave them vulnerable to a car injury, such as adjusting the radio, eating a snack, or putting on makeup, smartphone use has become one of the most common culprits. That’s why you should never text while driving and always use a hands-free communication device if you have to talk on the phone while you’re behind the wheel.

3. Speeding

While it may be tempting to speed when you’re late for work or driving in a remote area, it’s not worth the risk. More than 25% of traffic fatalities in 2018 were the result of speeding. Always obey posted speed limits and reduce your speed when driving near schools and in construction zones.

4. Inclement Weather

According to the Federal Highway Administration, approximately 21% of car accidents in the U.S. are related to weather. While you can’t control dangerous conditions such as sleet, snow, and freezing rain, you can take precautions to help reduce your risk of a car injury. If you must drive in inclement weather, make sure to reduce your speed by at least ten miles per hour in rainy weather and by at least half when driving on roads with ice or packed snow. It’s also important to make sure your tires are in suitable shape and designed to handle the road conditions you will be facing.

If you’ve been hurt in a car accident, get in touch with Peck & Peck Attorneys at Law. With more than 35 years of experience, these skilled attorneys have helped clients in the Hartford, CT, area get the compensation they deserve for car injury cases and other personal injury accidents. Visit their website to learn more about the firm, and call (860) 236-4782 for a free initial consultation.