- Car accidents, a leading cause of death in the US, resulted in approximately 39,000 fatalities in 2020.
- Over-speeding, poor visibility, vehicle malfunctions, distractions, and intoxication are primary accident causes.
- Regular vehicle maintenance, including tires, brakes, and light checks, significantly reduces accidents.
- Distracted driving, mainly due to gadget use, is one of the rising causes of car accidents.
- Defensive driving, avoiding distractions, regular vehicle maintenance, and driving courses can prevent accidents.
Car accidents are significant causes of injury and death worldwide. While many factors could lead to accidents, some cars are more vulnerable than others. As an expert in car safety, I have observed the common reasons that make your car more susceptible to accidents. Here’s what you need to know about car accidents in the U.S., why your car is susceptible to accidents, and what you can do about it.
Car Accidents in The U.S.
It’s estimated that there were 35,000 car accidents in 2020. It’s a startling statistic, but what’s more concerning is the number of deaths that resulted from these accidents. In 2020, it was estimated that 39,000 people were killed in car accidents in the United States alone. This makes car accidents one of the leading causes of death in America.
Why Your Car Is Susceptible to Accidents
There are several reasons your car is susceptible to accidents. Here are some of those reasons:
1. Over-Speeding
Over-speeding is one of the most common reasons that lead to car accidents. Driving at high speeds reduces the driver’s reaction time, making maneuvering the car in an emergency difficult. Moreover, it takes longer to slow down a speeding vehicle. Thus, it is necessary to maintain a safe speed limit when driving, especially on busy roads or in hazardous weather.
2. Poor Visibility
Poor visibility is another contributing factor in car accidents. Inadequate lighting on roads, faulty headlights or windshields, or the lack of signal lights make it difficult for drivers to see other drivers or objects on the road. This can lead to rear-end collisions, t-bone crashes, and many others. Ensure your car’s signal lights, headlights, and windshield are in good condition to avoid debilitating accidents.
3. Tires and Brakes
Tires and brakes are the most crucial components of your vehicle. Poorly maintained brakes or worn-out tires can pose a significant safety risk. When your brakes don’t respond quickly, you may not be able to stop in time to avoid a collision.
Similarly, worn-out tires can compromise your car’s stability on the road, especially in wet conditions or uneven surfaces. This is why getting your tire repaired or replaced when needed is essential. A tire repair service can do this for you. They can check your tires for flaws or damage and fix them as needed.
It’s also essential to get your brakes serviced regularly. A good brake service shop can inspect your brakes and replace any parts that may be worn out or damaged. This will help ensure your car is safe to drive on the road.
4. Distractions while Driving
Distractions are becoming more common nowadays and are rapidly becoming a leading cause of accidents. Eating, drinking, and using smartphones or other gadgets while driving can cause drivers to lose focus, reaction time, and even vision, resulting in a severe accidents. Avoid all forms of distraction while driving, focus on the road, and always keep both hands on the steering wheel.
5. Intoxication
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is one of the deadliest reasons to get involved in a car accident. Intoxication affects your judgment, reaction time, and vision. The consequences of a DUI could be fatal for you or other people on the road. If you plan on drinking, always assign a designated driver or use a cab to get home safely.
Car Accident Prevention
There are various ways you can prevent car accidents. There are technologies and techniques you can learn to prevent car accidents. Here are four of those ways:
Defensive Driving
You must learn defensive driving techniques and practice them on the road. Defensive driving entails being aware of your surroundings, anticipating risky scenarios, and using preventive measures to avoid accidents.
Vehicle Maintenance
Ensure all parts of your car are in proper working condition. Regularly check for oil leaks, tire pressure, brake faults, etc. A well-maintained car is less likely to face breakdowns or malfunctions that can lead to accidents.
Avoid Distractions
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents in the US, so you must avoid all distractions while driving. Turn off your phone, avoid eating or drinking behind the wheel, and don’t take your eyes off the road.
Driving Courses
Driving courses are an excellent way to improve your driving knowledge and skills. They provide in-depth information about safe driving practices, defensive techniques, and general traffic rules and regulations. Taking a course can help you become a better driver and reduce the chances of getting into an accident.
It’s important to remember that car accidents can cause severe injuries and even death. But with the proper precautions and knowledge, you can reduce the chances of being in an accident. This way, you can stay safe on the roads and keep yourself and others out of harm’s way.
