Car accidents happen. Sadly, most of them are caused by human error. Even if you do your best to remain vigilant on the road and obey all traffic laws, you can’t be sure that an accident won’t happen because traffic involves other people as well, and we all make mistakes.
If you are renting a car in Ireland, there are great options such as Accident Management offered at Haines Fleet.
Below, you’ll find the list of most common causes of driving accidents so you can do your part in avoiding these unfortunate occurrences.
Distracted driving
Distracted driving becomes a bigger threat every year. It has been the leading cause of car accidents for the past decade. Always pay attention to the road while you are driving. That means no calls, no texting, no eating, no reading, no grooming or applying makeup and chatting while behind the wheel.
All it takes are just a few moments of distraction to cause an accident. In the UK, a total of 39% of all traffic accidents happen because the driver/rider gets distracted.
Drunk driving
People driving while being drunk is one of the leading causes of accidents in the world. If a person plans on drinking, they should wait until the alcohol is out of their system and its effects disappear before they start driving.
If you must leave the place immediately, use a ride-sharing app, take a taxi, or give your keys to a sober friend. It is not worth the risk. Besides, alcohol increases your self-esteem and you might not even know how impaired your abilities are.
Failing to judge another person’s path or speed
The faster you go, the less your eyes can see, and the less time your brain has to process information such as the sharp curve ahead. It doesn’t matter how good your reactions are or how skilled a driver you are. Fast driving can lead to missing vital information, resulting in reacting late to hazards.
Check your speedometer regularly because you can often be travelling much faster than you think, especially after leaving a high-speed road such as a highway.
Driving in bad weather conditions
Drivers driving in dense fog, excessive rain, high winds, and slick roads can cause accidents, especially if they are inexperienced or unprepared for the road conditions.
If visibility is too low to drive or the roads seem incredibly slick, you should pull over and wait until the bad weather conditions pass.
Reckless Driving
Changing lanes too quickly, driving way over the speed limit, and acting aggressively on the roads can lead to horrible accidents. It is essential to take your time and remain calm while driving to avoid needless accidents caused by simple carelessness.
Keep a bubble of space around you. If someone is tailgating you, keep more distance in front. Doing so will give room for your braking and theirs too. Try to have some space to the sides as well, especially on multi-lane roads like highways.
Driving during nighttime
Lack of visibility makes hazards more difficult to see at night. Be sure that you are extra alert on the road at night and use your bright lights if you are on a road without streetlights. Just remember to turn them off if you see a car, pedestrians, or anything else heading your way.
Tire blowouts
If you get a flat tire while driving, it can cause you to swerve unexpectedly.
It can be scary, especially if you are going at high speed. Try to stay calm and keep control of the wheel while pulling over as soon as it is safe. Call for help if you cannot safely change the tire by yourself.
Driving the wrong way
Believe it or not, driving the wrong way is one of the leading causes of car accidents. Be aware of street signs warning of one-way streets or other irregularities, especially in unfamiliar areas.
When people don’t get in the proper lane to make a turn, use signals properly, or follow traffic signals, accidents tend to happen. Always look out for traffic signs and obey the appropriate right-of-way when you make a turn.
Potholes
Another surprising appearance on this list is from potholes. They are very frustrating for drivers because sometimes you cannot avoid them. Try to drive around potholes to avoid damaging your car when you can, but do not swerve into another lane if cars are coming. Even though some laws could work in your favour, don’t take chances.
Construction sites
Sometimes the way a construction zone is arranged can be confusing. Follow the cones as well as possible and be aware of other drivers who may be as confused as you are. It is especially important to drive slowly in these areas to avoid even the smallest accidents from occurring.
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