Every time we are on the road, we believe that all drivers will behave responsibly, and there will be no issue. But sadly, this is not true.
There are many drivers out there who are irresponsible and negligent. Speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and other reckless behaviors cause serious problems for people on the road.
When you understand these issues and take preventive measures, you can save yourself from further damage.
However, when disaster strikes, proving negligence in a car accident can be an issue. But this is something that a competent lawyer can help you through. In addition to proving negligence, the lawyer will also work hard to get you the compensation you deserve.
Let’s discuss some common negligent actions of drivers.
Speeding
One of the most common forms of negligent driving is speeding. There are many laws and campaigns that instruct drivers to drive within a specified speed limit.
Despite these laws, many people still drive beyond the speed limit and end up getting injured while also hurting others.
In 2022, speeding was a contributing factor in 29% of all traffic fatalities. There are many dangers associated with speeding:
- Reduced Reaction Time
- Increased Impact Force
- Loss of Vehicle Control
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
When you drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, it can end up causing accidents. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 29 US citizens pass away in car accidents involving drunk drivers every day. This means that one person dies every 50 minutes.
Alcohol and drugs affect the ability of a person to:
- Make Judgements
- React Quickly
- Stay Focused
This makes alcohol- or drug-impaired drivers the worst type of people to share the road with.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is an increasing issue with the rise of mobile technology. When you text, call, or use GPS while driving, it takes your attention away from the road and can increase the risk of an accident.
Some common distractions are:
- Eating or Drinking
- Texting or Calling
- Adjusting Radio or GPS Controls
- Arguing or Conversing with Co-Occupants
- Playing with Kids or Pets
- Grooming
Reckless Driving
Reckless driving involves different dangerous behaviors other than speeding and driving under influence. This can include harmful driving practices, like
- Road rage
- Weaving through traffic
- Tailgating
- Aggressive driving
- Honking
These driving practices harm the driver and also have the risk of hurting other motorists.
Preventative Measures for Road Safety
It is impossible to control the actions of all drivers. That is why it is important to take preventative measures to ensure the safety of you and your family and reduce the risk of accidents.
- Obey speed limits
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Stay focused
- Practice defensive driving
Conclusion
Actions like negligent driving, speeding, driving under the influence, and reckless driving are serious threats to motorists. If we understand these risks and take preventative measures, we can protect ourselves from the tragic effects of these actions.
We can reduce the number of accidents if we educate ourselves and raise awareness about the consequences of these actions.
