Car accidents are undesirably widespread in the world. Most of these road collisions are a result of human error. Although some of them are fairly minor, many lives are lost each year due to terrible car crashes. Because driving without caution risks your life, it is necessary to drive carefully and observe traffic laws.
Nonetheless, just because you’re cautious doesn’t imply that the rest of the drivers on the road will follow suit. In case you’re involved in a car collision that you feel isn’t your fault, you should secure yourself by documenting a car accident claim.Â
Here are the nine most common causes of car accidents in the world. Keenly read through them to know what they are and the actions you can start taking henceforth to avoid them.
1. Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is arguably the major cause of car accidents every year for many decades. Being highly attentive while driving on the road, can greatly help in this case. Avoid calling, texting, reading, eating, makeup application, and grooming during driving.
2. Drunk Driving
Drunk driving is among the most hazardous and deadly causes of accidents in the world. In case you feel overwhelmed by hard drinks, it’s safe to hand your keys to a sober friend. Or better yet, take a taxi. Don’t risk!Â
3. Reckless Driving
Shifting lanes in a haste, and aggressive action on the roads can cause horrible accidents. Taking your time and being calm while driving will help you to avoid unnecessary road crashes.
4. Speeding
When you’re getting late, you can be tempted to surpass the normal speed limits. However, speeding is ranked second among the most common causes of car accidents. So withstand the urge and drive within stipulated limits. Because it’s always better to be late than never getting to your destination.
5. Rain
Though you can’t often avoid driving while it’s raining, you should try to avoid the hazardous, slippery, road conditions whenever possible. In case the road is tricky or visibility isn’t clear, you should consider parking until the conditions allow.
6. Night Driving
Unreliable visibility makes possible dangers hard to detect at night. Always ensure that you’re more attentive at night on the road. Also, utilize your car’s full lights when driving on a road without street lights.
7. Design Defects
Occasionally accidents are caused by the car’s shortcomings. Although you can’t often avoid this, ensure you pay attention to any recall news and have your car maintained regularly.
8. Tailgating
Often there isn’t a valid reason to get so close to the car ahead of you. Regardless of how slow it may seem to be moving. Maintain a safe distance between your car and the one in front. So, you’ll be able to respond to abrupt braking or turns without a problem.
9. Wrong-Way Driving
Man is to error, however wrong judgment during car driving can result in terrible accidents. Pay attention to the one-way warnings, street signs, and irregularities, particularly in new areas.
Car Accidents Faqs
Here are the frequently asked questions about car accidents, according to the J&Y Law.
What should I do immediately after a car accident?
The first thing you should do is stay calm, call the police, and dial 911 if you or someone else has been injured. Also, get the name and contact information of all the other parties involved in the accident as well as any witnesses. If possible, take pictures of the vehicles to document the damage, the accident scene, and the injuries. Finally, do not admit liability because your attorney will need to conduct a thorough investigation to establish the other driver’s fault.
Will I have to go to court if I file a personal injury claim?
In most cases, auto accident claims are resolved outside of court and settled through a detailed and intricate negotiation with an insurance company. Nonetheless, many insurers try to settle claims quickly and for as little money as possible. If the insurer fails to make an offer for the full value of your claim, we are prepared to litigate the matter in court.
What information do I need to file a claim?
To have a successful auto accident claim, it is necessary to collect evidence, such as the contact information of the parties involved and any witnesses, and provide a detailed explanation of how the accident occurred, along with photographs of the accident scene. In this regard, the reports of law enforcement will also serve as important evidence in your claim.
Should I seek medical treatment after a car accident even if I feel fine?
After an accident, you may feel fine, only to have injuries surface days, weeks, or even months later. For this reason, you should consider seeing a doctor even if you don’t believe you were injured. A doctor can recognize injuries that are not immediately apparent to you and alert you to warning signs of injuries that may arise. By failing to have your injuries treated within a reasonable amount of time, you may forfeit your right to recover damages for future medical costs. In any event, never settle a car accident claim until a doctor has examined you and advised you of the extent of your injuries.
Should I release my medical records to another driver’s insurance company?
A medical records release should only be signed under limited circumstances, after consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney. If an insurer obtains your medical information, it could affect your claim. The insurer may argue that your injuries were not that serious, for example, or that they were related to a preexisting condition.
What if I think the accident was at least partly my fault?
Do not accept any blame for an accident since there are often many factors involved. If an investigation determines that you are partially at fault, you may still be entitled to compensation. It is important to note that California uses a system of pure comparative negligence to determine liability in a car accident case. This means that each person who is found to be at fault for a car accident is liable for his or her portion of the fault. If it is determined that you were 20 percent at fault for the accident and otherwise eligible for a $100,000 settlement, for example, the settlement would be reduced to $80,000 (or 80 percent of the original settlement amount).
Can I still recover damages if I was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident?
California’s seat belt law requires both drivers and passengers to wear seat belts when a vehicle is in motion. Nonetheless, if you fail to buckle up and are injured in an accident, you may still be entitled to compensation from the at-fault party. Because California is a comparative fault state, however, your settlement will be reduced by your assigned percentage of fault. You may also be ticketed by law enforcement at the scene for not wearing a seat belt.
Should I settle with the other driver’s insurance company?
You should not speak to another insurer or accept a settlement offer before you consult with an experienced car accident attorney. If you accept a settlement offer too soon, you may not receive the full value of your claim. An attorney can advise you of the true value of your claim and negotiate a settlement that compensates you for any future injuries and medical expenses.
Final Thoughts
Before starting your car engine, think about your wonderful life, loved ones, investments, and the dreams you have for the future. Be cautious while driving your car. Life is precious!
