Accidents are unpredictable and can cost a lot in damages and medical costs. The cause of an accident can vary, but it tends to centralize around three main factors: drivers, defects and conditions.
These three factors rely largely on you and your roadside safety practices. If drivers are not putting safety first and taking certain precautions when driving, this can put many people in harm's way. Avoiding an accident is not always possible, but avoiding putting yourself in certain situations can help.
As a driver it is your responsibility to be stay vigil and keep the roads safe for you and other drivers. The most common ways drivers can cause accidents are:
- Reckless driving
- Distracted driving
- Under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Reckless driving can include things like speeding or tailgating. Texting, using a cell phone, eating, grooming or putting on make-up are all considered distractions and have the potential to cause a serious accident. Distracted driving, specifically text and driving, is a big reason why there are so many accident related injuries and deaths throughout the state and country.
Driving under the influence is also a large concern. It may seem obvious but a large amount of Louisiana deaths are attributed to drivers who are under the influence.
Defects in cars and roads can be a concern for potential accidents. Some car defects are attributed to the manufacturer's error or design defects, but other errors could put you at-fault. Your responsibilities include periodic checkups and repairs on:
- Taillights, headlights and blinker signals
- Other vehicle safety concerns
It is important to keep your vehicle up-to-date and to be aware of any product or manufacturer recalls that your vehicle may have.
Road defects are also a contributor to accidents. Often time's drivers swerve out of the way to avoid hitting a pothole and they end up hitting another car in the process. There could also be debris on the road that causes your tire to blowout.
It is best to always scan the roads and to be alert and prepared if you need to switch lanes. Being proactive and not reactive when it comes to safety is highly important when driving because you are sharing the road with others.
Driving conditions are not always ideal either. Many times, it is hard to see or have complete control over your vehicle when driving through bad weather. Always be extra cautious when driving in:
- Snow or blizzards
- Rain or heavy storms
- Night time
There is limited vision when driving in rain or snow; it is even harder at night. It is always a best practice to use caution and be alert when driving in these conditions.
Car accidents can raise many questions pertaining to whose was at-fault. Was the driver distracted or under the influence or were there other circumstances at play? If you were injured in an accident and you believe that the driver was impaired or there were defects with the road or car, you could have a potential lawsuit.
An experienced attorney can help guide you through the process. They will gather evidence and listen to your case to help identify if you are eligible to receive a settlement. A lawyer will address any concerns or questions you may have about the process, the accident or other concerns about damages or insurance.