The Leading Causes of Car Accidents: Anticipation Is the Best Prevention

Accidents occur when you least expect them. It's important to be able to anticipate which scenarios and conditions are most likely to cause an accident. It's an ability that comes only with experience. However, you can prepare yourself to deal with dangerous situations by familiarizing yourself with the circumstances that most often lead to accidents. Following are the six most common causes:

1. Distracted Drivers. This includes texting while driving. Studies have shown that even talking on your phone in hands-free mode can be enough to pull your attention away from the road. Other common activities in this category are rubbernecking, eating, looking at scenery and adjusting the radio. While some of these distractions are ultimately unavoidable, it's important to identify the right times to perform these tasks. If you're unsure, you can always pull off the road momentarily. 

2. Driver Fatigue. We've all been in that position where we're crunched for time on a road trip and push ourselves to the limit of sleep deprivation. It's common knowledge that it is extremely unsafe to continue on in this manner. About 100,000 accidents of this nature occur every year. Being aware of this fact is important to protect yourself on the road. The most dangerous time to encounter drowsy drivers is between 11pm and 8am. 

3. Drunk Driving. This one's a no-brainer. Don't do it. Also, be aware of holidays, weekends and peak times when it's most common that you will be sharing the road with this despicable type of motorist. 

4. Speeding. Sometimes exhibiting speed can be the difference between getting caught in a dangerous roadway situation and avoiding it. It's important to know instinctively when to do so. However, when on an open stretch of road, there is no reason not to obey the posted speed limit. Another thing to keep in mind is that driving significantly below the speed limit can also be dangerous. A good rule of thumb is to maintain speed with the flow of traffic. If you don't feel comfortable matching the speed of traffic around you, perhaps you should choose an alternate route. 

5. Aggressive Driving. The New York State Police defines an aggressive driver as somebody who, "Operates a motor vehicle in a selfish, bold or pushy manner, without regard for the rights or safety of the other users of the streets and highways." That is a fairly broad definition of the term. Specific examples include road-rage, tailgating and failure to yield right-of-way. Obviously, you never want to operate a motor vehicle in an emotional state that prevents you from making informed decisions. It's more difficult to avoid interaction with these type of people on the road. If you do run into an aggressive motorist remain calm, keep your distance and avoid passing this person. If you feel the situation may escalate, dial 911. 

6. Weather. This cause is completely uncontrollable. However, it still is avoidable. It's important to always inform yourself of weather conditions whenever you plan to be on the road. The radio is a great tool for ascertaining current conditions while on the road. 700 AM broadcasts current conditions in most cities across the country. If you do get caught driving in inclement weather, precautions can be taken to reduce the risk of losing control and/or colliding. Reduce speed, leave more room between yourself and the next car and perform smooth and calculated maneuvers. 

Be safe out there fans! Get more great automotive related content by following this blog and by visiting the Rotolo Chevrolet website. Feel free to share us what you think are some other common causes of accidents.