4 Lesser-Known Causes of Serious Car Accidents
Most people already know that speeding, tailgating, and texting while driving are responsible for a significant number of collisions every year. What you may not know, though, is that there are hundreds of lesser-known factors that contribute to serious accidents, and being aware of them may help you anticipate and avoid a serious crash.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, alcohol impairment was responsible for 31 percent of all traffic-related fatalities in 2014, and the Official U.S. Government Website for Distracted Driving reports that 2.2 percent of motorists used handheld devices while driving that same year. Although texting and drunk driving are two common causes of accidents, they are not the only ones.
If you sustained serious injuries because of an inattentive or reckless driver, contact an injury attorney from Rensch & Rensch Law. Call 1-800-471-4100 to schedule a free consultation with an Omaha accident lawyer.
Read on to learn about four lesser-known causes of serious collisions:
- Rubbernecking
Rubbernecking is essentially a form of distracted driving, but instead of letting something inside the car steal your focus, you fixate on a roadside hazard that you are passing. Whether passing an accident or a routine traffic stop, people tend to be curious when they see something out of the ordinary, and they often crane their necks to get a better view.
Rubbernecking is incredibly dangerous, even at slow speeds, distracted driving can kill. When you are behind the wheel, remember that what lies ahead of you is more important than what is behind you.
- Emotional Outbursts
Your emotions have a direct effect on your concentration, and if you are especially angry or sad, it can affect your driving ability. When you are struggling to control your emotions, you are less likely to pay attention to motorists and hazards around you and, therefore, you are more likely to crash.
- Eating and Drinking
Thanks to the proliferation of fast food restaurants, eating while driving is common. Despite the “drive-thru” culture that we live in, doing anything that takes your eyes off the road or your hands off the wheel is dangerous. You can enjoy the burger and fries after you get home safely.
- Boisterous Children
Young children can be incredibly distracting while their parents or caretakers are driving. If your children are fussing, it is only natural to want to reach back and soothe them; however, if they are wearing their seatbelts and you know they are safe, you should keep your focus on the road so you can get to your destination safely.
If you were in a car accident with another motorist who was driving in a reckless or negligent manner, you may have the right to claim compensation. Turn to Rensch & Rensch Law to discuss your case with an experienced accident lawyer.
Call 1-800-471-4100 to schedule a free consultation with an Omaha injury attorney. You can learn more about car accident claims in Nebraska by visiting car-accident.usattorneys.com/nebraska.
