Sometimes we do things, willingly or just by accident, that might seem minor. But they can lead to accidents. These are the most common car crash mistakes you should avoid by keeping your eyes open and being aware of your surroundings at all times.
What Is A Driver Error?
A driver error is a mistake or lapse in judgment that leads to an automobile accident. If you keep up with the latest news you may already know that some of the most common driver errors include speeding, driving under the influence, and failing to yield to pedestrians and drivers. Turning abruptly and not following traffic rules are also common detrimental mistakes that are made by drivers.
If you have been involved in a car accident as a driver or a passenger, it is important to know your legal rights and what you can do to minimize your damages.
Stats On Car Crashes
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, car crashes are the leading cause of death for Americans between the ages of 15 and 24. With that in mind, it’s important to be aware of some common driver errors that lead to car accidents.
Here are three of the most common driver errors that lead to car accidents:
Traveling in the wrong lane – One of the biggest causes of car accidents is motorists traveling in the wrong lane. According to NHTSA, nearly half (47%) of all fatal car crashes happen when someone is driving in the wrong lane. When drivers venture into the other lanes, they put themselves and other drivers at risk.
Failing to yield to traffic – Another big no-no is failing to yield to oncoming traffic. According to NHTSA, drivers who don’t yield cause about a third (34%) of all fatal car crashes. Failing to give someone enough time to pass can be deadly, especially if they’re traveling in a slower-moving vehicle.
Driving too fast for conditions – Many drivers drive too fast for the conditions, which can put them and other drivers at risk. In fact, according to NHT SA, around 60% of fatal driving accidents involve speeds greater than the limit. If you take your eyes off the road for any reason and you end up causing an accident, it could be critical to help you through this difficult time.
Examples Of Common Driver Errors
If you’re like most drivers, making some common mistakes is something you’re not afraid to admit. However, these errors can result in car accidents.
1. Not Scanning For Vehicles Ahead Of You
Drivers who don’t scan for cars ahead of them are at a higher risk of becoming involved in accidents. This is because they’re not aware of the potential for collisions and may not react in time if one does occur.
2. Focusing On The Phone While Driving
Distracted driving is a major problem across all modes of transportation, but it’s particularly dangerous while driving. This is because you’re not focused on the task of driving and may not be able to react quickly enough if there’s an emergency situation.
3. Cutting Off Others On The Road
It’s important to remember that road rage can lead to serious consequences, including car accidents. If you encounter someone else on the road and begin to cut them off, be sure to calm down and pull over if possible. Violence on the roads never solves anything.
4. Driving Too Fast For The Conditions
To avoid accidents, you do not need to drive as fast as possible. It is best to drive at around half the posted speed limit. A vehicle traveling at a slower pace will be more predictable and give others on the road more time to react if something happens.
5. Failing To Move Over For Accidents
When you see a car in front of you with its lights on and running with no one behind it, it’s important that you move over and allow that vehicle to get through when traffic ahead of it doesn’t block your path. It could save someone your life!
Important Tips For Driving To Reduce Your Risk For Accidents
Driving is one of the most important aspects of life. Nobody wants to get in an accident, but it happens to everyone. By following some simple tips, you can help reduce your risk for driving-related accidents.
1) Watch the road ahead, not the phone or text message.
2) Don’t drive faster than you are comfortable with. Slow down when you have to merge or turn in a tight space.
3) Keep your hands on the wheel at all times and keep your eyes on the road.
4) When you see a red light, stop at the stop sign even if it means going around it. If it’s a busy intersection, try to go around it from a side street or parking lot instead of risking getting involved in a crash.
5) You should stay in your lane unless you need to change lanes for a reason (for example, when there’s debris on the road).
If you want to stay safe on the roads, it is important to be aware of some common driver errors that can lead to car accidents. By being aware of these errors, you can reduce your chance of getting into a car accident and help avoid any potential injuries.