6 Common Causes of Road Accidents and Tips to Avoid Them

• (Photo : Nate Isaac on Unsplash)

Despite our best efforts, accidents do happen. Damage to your car and other injuries may occur, and a rise in the cost of your insurance. But driving safely may help protect your loved ones and keep your insurance premiums in check. The following are common causes of vehicle accidents, as well as suggestions for avoiding them:

Rear-End Collisions

Insurance claims for rear-end collisions are the most common cause of automobile accidents. The majority of these incidents may be avoided, whether you're the one struck by a car going in your direction or being hit by a vehicle behind you. Here are some ideas to keep in mind:

■ Don't go too close. Be careful to maintain a three-second lead over the vehicle in front of you. It's much more so if your car is heavier. Extend the timeout period if the situation warrants it.

■ When you're behind the wheel, pay attention to your surroundings. Be aware of circumstances that may require you to deploy the brakes. Getting hit by another car might happen if a driver follows too closely or isn't paying attention to where they're going.

■ Keep your attention on the road, whether you're eating, texting, or looking up information on your phone. If you suddenly see the car in front of you, halt in seconds without paying attention to the vehicle at the back.

Damage to the Parked Car

An accident caused by a driver sideswiping a parked car is among the most common reasons for car damage. If you leave your automobile alone in a parking lot or on the street, be careful to take the appropriate precautions to avoid vehicle crashes and any legal action. Here are a few suggestions:

■ Avoid parking in the most congested section of a parking lot. You don't want to park right next to a busy intersection. As a result, getting hit by another vehicle will be reduced.

■ Don't waste a single inch of space. Always park in the middle of a space. If you're parked too near the line, move your vehicle back. As a result, your car will be protected from being hit by other vehicles as they enter or exit neighboring parking spots. Doors will also be protected from dents, thanks to this.

■ It's a good idea to park in a garage. When you're not using your car, the idea is to maintain it safely.

■ In a street-smart way, park your car. Don't park near traffic lights or in the middle of narrow driveways. Other cars may not be able to see your vehicle, and they might even slide it onto the road as they pass.

Construction

Site accidents can happen anytime and anywhere. However, construction zones on roads are one of the most dangerous places to get into accidents. Take note of the following:

■ Slowing down might offer the motorist more time to respond in an emergency.

■ Drive defensively by anticipating the unexpected and allowing plenty of space between you and the vehicles in front of you.

■ They may be used as a designated sign, and any directions given by flaggers who break the law in construction zones must be obeyed. In construction zones, it is critical to be attentive to all signage.

According to Barnes Firms, a group of highly experienced San Diego accident attorneys, you might be entitled to compensation if you were injured in a car accident. Depending on where the accident happened, you will be able to file a claim based on the rules and regulations in that area.

A Single-Vehicle Accident

This kind of accident includes collisions with road barriers or other obstacles and crashes and rollovers when driving off-road. Ignoring them is not difficult.

■ Stay alert. If it is a stormy, snowy, or chilly day and you are driving at a pace you are comfortable with, even if it is the only car on the road, do not take any chances.

■ Preparation is key to avoiding hydroplaning on flooded highways and improving your winter-time driving skills.

■ Be conscious of what you're doing-texting, making hands-free phone calls, and eating food while driving are all legal, even if you're the only one behind the wheel. Conditions may change at any time, and no one can foresee when.

■ Don't go too quickly while driving. Over the previous two decades, one-third of all traffic-related fatalities included speeding. No matter who is around, speeding is still dangerous.

Damage to the Windshield

Car windshield cracks and chips are common problems that many drivers are unaware of how to avoid. The bulk of windshield damage is caused by automobiles hurling pebbles and other debris.

■ Staying away from cars and trucks might help you avoid injury.

■ Avoid driving in the path of snowplows when they spread salt or other granular material. Cracks and chips may occur when large chunks are used.

Accidents Occurring at Crossroads

Accidents often occur at intersections as well. Preoccupied motorists may miss the change from green to red. In addition, they may not be aware of vehicles slowing down before a curve.

■Avoiding crashes may be as simple as practicing defensive driving skills. When the green light changes, pause for a second to make sure no one else is approaching the crossing at the exact moment.

■ Be on the lookout for vehicles attempting to run a red light at the intersection. A yellow light means you should be cautious and avoid taking risks if you're approaching an intersection with one.