Slippery roads, distractions, and speeding are just a few of the factors that can put all drivers at risk for accidents. While many of these risks are uniform for all drivers, your location can make certain factors more prevalent. This is even true for drivers in sunny California.
Car accident attorneys know that some driving conditions and driver habits make individuals more susceptible to accidents. While this is true in every state, the following are some of the most common causes of car accidents in California and how you can protect yourself.
Distracted driving
Today’s world is full of distractions, and many drivers are guilty of driving while using a mobile device. In fact, a recent study found that 54 percent of California drivers reported having been hit or almost hit by a driver using a cell phone. While it can be tempting to send a text or make a call while driving, you could be putting yourself or someone else at risk. Rather than engaging in distracted driving, pull over when you need to send a text and take advantage of hands-free calling technology.
Poor maneuvering
Even the most cautious drivers make occasional mistakes, but carelessness can easily cause accidents. Improper turns, careless merging, and drifting out of the lane are all common causes of car accidents in California. The best way to avoid these types of incidents is to slow down and stay alert, even when you are in a rush. If you are sure you are in the clear, take a moment to check your blind spots and ensure that other cars are not in the way. This could save you from a costly fender bender or more serious crash.
Speeding
Many drivers have received traffic tickets for speeding, but it’s important not to make this violation a habit. Speed limits on highways and freeways do not exceed 70 mph in California, and speeding beyond these limits could cause you to lose control of the vehicle. This is especially true during the rainy season when roads are slippery. Data shows that teen drivers are more likely to speed than adults, so parents should speak to their teenagers about the importance of slowing down.
Traffic signal violations
Often associated with speeding and poor maneuvering, traffic signal violations can lead to serious accidents. For example, running a red light could cause you to crash into an oncoming vehicle. Remember that a split-second decision could lead to a lengthy lawsuit, so be sure to make the right choice. Always obey traffic signals, even in rural areas.
Driving while intoxicated
Any driver with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 percent or above is at risk for a DUI conviction in California. Unfortunately, some drivers get behind the wheel when they should not. This caused 10,321 people to die in alcohol-related crashes between 2003 and 2012 in California.
It’s important to note that California has a high conviction rate for DUI cases. An Orange County car accident lawyer practices in an area with a 91.2 percent conviction rate, and other counties have similar statistics. If you are drinking at all, be sure to arrange a ride home or use a ride-sharing service to prevent an accident.
If you are involved in a car accident in California, it is always important to work with a qualified attorney like lawyer grossmans in Fresno. Check that the firm you are considering specializes in auto accident law and personal injury. Your lawyer will help you gather evidence, build a case, and obtain the compensation you deserve. Then you can move on from the accident enjoy peace of mind once again.
