There are many reasons why drivers get into crashes. Some get into crashes because of distractions, while others crash because they’re not familiar with their vehicles.
Distracted drivers are among the greatest risks on the roads. Around 25 to 50 percent of all motor vehicle crashes are a result of driver distractions of some kind, according to a director at the American Automobile Association.
What kind of distractions can cause crashes?
Distractions come in many forms. Some common distractions are other collisions, passengers, technology and fatigue. For example, if you’re driving down the road and see a collision, you may pay more attention to the crash than what’s going on in front of you. That puts you at a risk of a crash yourself since you’re not looking at the vehicle ahead of you.
Fatigue is a particular danger for some. If you don’t get enough sleep, it can be hard to concentrate when you’re behind the wheel. Additionally, there is the potential for you to fall asleep behind the wheel, which could result in driving off the road or causing a collision by crossing the center line or rear-ending another driver.
Fortunately, there are ways to prevent accidents. Avoid distractions like looking at crashes or changing your radio station. If you’re tired, take a break or share driving responsibilities so you can get the rest you need before you continue driving.
For those who are involved in crashes with people who are distracted, you have a right to file a claim. Talk with an experienced Tennessee attorney to determine what your legal options are.
Source: SixWise, “The 6 Most Common Causes of Automobile Crashes,” accessed Aug. 03, 2017
