Drivers have a duty to operate their vehicles in the safest manner possible. They can only accomplish this aim if they’re mentally and physically able to drive in a focused manner. Yet, many drivers overlook dangerous driving behaviors that compromise these abilities.
Unfortunately, many car crashes that have occurred could have been prevented if drivers had made more responsible decisions. Consider these fully preventable causes of motor vehicle crashes and how devastating it is for the innocent victims who have to deal with life-changing circumstances.
Distracted driving
Distracted driving can lead to severe injuries or fatalities. Activities that distract attention from driving, such as texting, calling, eating or using in-car systems like navigation or entertainment, can dangerously decrease a driver’s awareness and reaction times. The momentary lapse in concentration might seem minor, but it can have devastating consequences, such as collisions that could have been avoided with full attention on the road.
Impaired driving
Impaired driving, which is caused by consuming alcohol or drugs, is another entirely preventable cause of road crashes that continues to claim lives. Alcohol significantly impairs cognitive functions and physical coordination, rendering drivers incapable of operating vehicles safely. The effects of drugs, including prescription medications, can be equally debilitating, affecting judgment, reaction time, and motor skills.
Fatigued driving
Fatigued driving is a dangerous behavior that leads to numerous accidents annually. Similar to the effects of alcohol, lack of sleep diminishes a driver’s ability to make quick decisions and react promptly to unexpected hazards. Long-haul drivers, shift workers and individuals with sleep disorders are particularly at risk, though anyone can fall victim to drowsiness behind the wheel.
While every car wreck can lead to devastating injuries, innocent victims of these kinds of crashes often have to deal with considerable medical care costs and lost wages as they heal from their injuries. They may opt to pursue a compensation claim against those responsible to help offset those costs. These cases have time limits set by state law, so seeking legal assistance right away is generally a good idea for these victims.
