Top Causes of Auto Accidents Reviewed by an Albuquerque Auto Accident Lawyer
Car accidents are most of the time avoidable: that is, when they are due to mistakes on the part of the driver. An Albuquerque auto accident lawyer will be quick to tell you that, of the many causes of driver error, most are due to a split-second distraction or driving under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance. Non-driver error accidents can result from the weather, road conditions, or mechanical failures.
Driving While Distracted
Talking or texting on cell phones while driving are notorious causes for driver distraction. National Safety Council statistics indicate that they are linked to one-quarter of the accidents that occur in the United States. The NSC attributes this to people’s tendency to believe that they can multitask while driving. But this is a myth. We can either concentrate on driving or concentrate on texting. It’s impossible to give our full attention to both at once.
Judgment Errors
Errors in judgment can include excessive speed, driving faster than road conditions permit, and driving while impaired. For instance, if you are operating your vehicle while impaired by alcohol, you will almost certainly experience slowed reaction times and reflexes. Your vision may be affected, and your ability to exercise good judgment can suffer. Of the people killed in automobile accidents, the Centers for Disease Control report that 40% were killed in accidents involving alcohol.
Fatigue
Extreme fatigue has an effect much like that of alcohol on a driver’s vision, reaction time and judgment. Drifting off to sleep while the car is in motion is hugely dangerous. If you drive while drowsy, you greatly increase the risk of failing to see stop signs or traffic lights, or of straying out of your lane.
When it’s Not the Driver
Weather conditions such as ice, snow, reduced visibility due to fog or driving rain, and extreme winds can all cause accidents. The road surface can be a factor if it is pitted with potholes, covered with grease or oil, or if the traffic control lines are not clearly visible.
Mechanical Failure
A sudden breakdown in one of your car’s systems can increase the danger of a collision. If the steering, brakes or acceleration systems fail or become unreliable, even the most skilled driver may find it impossible to maintain control.
Don’t Take a Chance
Regardless of the cause, if you are involved in an automobile accident, you will need the services of a skilled, experienced Albuquerque auto accident lawyer. For help with your case, call the Attorneys at Khayoumi Law Firm at (505) 333-8613 today.
