Driving can be dangerous even if you do everything that you should the right way. You never know who you are in close proximity to on the roadway and whether they are exercising reasonable care at all times. Motorists can become careless, or they may consciously disregard traffic laws. All it takes is a momentary lapse for a driver to cause a serious car accident. Here are the reasons for major car accidents in Highland Park and what you may be able to do to keep from being involved in one.
Speeding
Even a 10 mph increase in speed can raise the risk of a car accident by 20 to 30%. Drivers are less able to quickly use their reflexes, and they are more prone to missing a sign or losing control of their vehicle when they are speeding. Even traveling at the posted speed limit can be dangerous if it is not allowed by the conditions. For example, drivers should reduce their speed when they are going through a work zone or when they are on the road during inclement weather conditions.
Distracted Driving
Motorists need to pay attention at all times when driving. They should not be engaging in any other activities, such as texting or using their mobile devices. In the brief time that it may take a driver to read or send a text, their vehicle could travel the length of an entire football field. Having eyes or focus off the road increases the chances that a driver could lose control of their vehicle or be unable to respond in time to a situation that emerges in their vicinity.
Impaired Driving
Using alcohol or drugs before driving can significantly increase the chances of a car accident. Alcohol and drugs reduce a driver’s judgment, and they may take away inhibitions. Further, alcohol can make a motorist drowsy. When a driver is at the legal limit of .08, they are four times more likely to be involved in a car accident than a motorist who has not consumed any alcohol. Further, these car accidents are often more serious, and there is a greater chance of a fatality.
Inexperience
It takes a certain amount of seasoning as a driver to be able to respond to every hazard and situation. Motorists who have been driving for longer are more likely to know what to expect and what challenges may suddenly arise. Conversely, teenage drivers and those who have just gotten their license often do not have the judgment and experience necessary to anticipate challenges and drive defensively. Newer drivers may not know how to deal with adverse weather conditions, and they have higher rates of serious car accidents.
Failure to Yield
Drivers have a legal obligation to stop for other motorists under certain circumstances. When a motorist reaches an intersection, there is typically a stop sign or red light that requires them to yield. Drivers may also have to yield to others who are already established in a roadway when they are entering a highway or changing lanes. The failure to yield can lead to serious T-bone collisions or dangerous side-swipe crashes.
Drive Defensively at All Times
It may not always be possible to avoid a serious car accident because you cannot control what others do behind the wheel. All you are able to do is manage your own actions and drive defensively at all times. You should always anticipate the unexpected from other drivers. Allowing more room between you and other cars on the road may give you additional time to respond to another motorist’s dangerous action. Observe the posted speed limits and pay full attention to the road at all times because you never know when you may need to act quickly.
Highland Park Car Accident Lawyers at Mikita & Roccanova, LLC, Will Fight on Your Behalf
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle crash that was caused by someone else’s negligence or recklessness, speak to the Highland Park car accident lawyers at Mikita & Roccanova, LLC. We will investigate your case and fight to obtain full and fair compensation on your behalf. You can schedule a free initial consultation with one of our attorneys by visiting our website or by calling us today at 732-705-3363. We have offices in Hazlet and Highland Park, NJ, and we serve clients in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.