Auto Collision Information: Reviewing Common Factors In Car Accidents

Auto Collision Information: Reviewing Common Factors In Car Accidents

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Even though the overall number of motor vehicle accidents and resulting fatalities has declined in the U.S. over the past few decades, they remain a significant problem. In 2008, there were over 5.8 million car accidents in the country. Around 2.35 million people suffered injuries in those accidents, and 37,261 people died.

Car accidents fatalities do not just impact adult drivers. They remain the leading cause of death for those under the age of 35. Each year, around 250,000 children are injured in motor vehicle crashes. Statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) suggest that every 14 seconds someone is injured, and every 12 minutes someone dies in a car accident.

What causes a car accident? Unfortunately, there is no one culprit. Instead, there are a myriad of reasons, many of which are simply the result of bad driving. Driver inattention or distraction, aggressive driving, fatigue, speeding, and drunk driving cause the majority of car accidents each year, while animals, car malfunctions, and inclement weather typically are to blame for a smaller percentage of all accidents.

Data from the NHTSA suggest that 98 percent of car accidents involve a distracted driver. Common distractions include drivers: slowing to see what is going on (rubbernecking), talking on a cell phones or texting while driving, operating a vehicle while tired, talking to passengers or looking at scenery, and adjusting the radio.

Another driver related accident cause is driving under the influence of alcohol. According to the NHTSA, of the 37,261 traffic fatalities in 2008, drunk drivers caused 31.6 percent. With 75 percent of drivers admitting to regularly speeding, it is likely not surprising to learn that excessive speeding holds the number two spot in terms of the most common cause of deadly car accidents. It accounted for approximately 30 percent of all fatalities.

Drivers remain the biggest threat to themselves and others. However, awareness of the types of behavior that cause accidents may make everyone more alert while driving, and hopefully spare themselves and others the misery of an accident.

About the Author:
If you or someone you love has been injured in an auto accident, semi-truck accident, motorcycle accident, or another type of motor vehicle accident, speaking with an attorney is the first step in protecting your rights and the rights of your loved ones.



Article Originally Published On: http://www.articlesnatch.com


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