Cars are an important part of our daily lives. We use them to get to work, get the kids to school and get our groceries. Vehicles make our lives easier, allowing us to basically go where we want, when we want.
With the privilege of driving come certain responsibilities. The most notable is likely the expectation that we operate our vehicles safely. A failure to do so isn’t just dangerous, it can be illegal.
There are a number of things drivers do while driving that can increase the risk of an accident. Three easily avoidable dangers that contribute to car accidents include:
- Distracted driving. Drivers must watch the road to drive safely. Looking down at a phone to send a text, make a phone call, post an update on Facebook, transfer a photo to Instagram or look for Pokémon Go! directions is dangerous and can lead to accidents. More classic distractions also pose a threat. Activities like changing the radio station, eating or yelling at kids in the backseat can be just as dangerous as using a smartphone.
- Drunk driving. The dangers of drinking and driving are well known, but continue to pose a problem on our nation’s roadways. Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) reports that there is a drunk driving accident every two minutes resulting in the injury of at least one person.
- Drowsy driving. In addition to driving drunk or distracted, drivers can also be a danger if they do not get enough rest. A recent piece by NPR discussed the dangers of drowsy driving. According to the piece, a study from AAA found that drivers who get five or six hours of sleep are twice as likely to get into an auto accident than those who get seven or more hours of sleep during a 24 hour period.
These three “d’s” can be avoided. Drivers can call a friend or taxi to get them to their destination safely. If a driver chooses to get behind the wheel while distracted, drunk or drowsy and causes an accident, he or she can be held responsible for any resulting property damage or injuries.
If you are injured in a car accident and believe the car crash was the fault of the other driver, you may be able to get monetary awards to help cover the costs connected with the accident through a lawsuit. Contact an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss your accident and potential legal remedies.