What Are the Causes of Road Accidents and How to Avoid Them

Road accidents are one of the leading causes of death and injury worldwide. We all know that road accidents can cause physical and emotional trauma and financial hardship. This article will discuss the common causes of road accidents and how to avoid them.

1. Poor Driving Behaviour

Driving behaviour is one of the major contributors to traffic collisions. Some examples of such behaviour includes:

  • Texting while driving
  • Driving over the speed limit
  • Following too closely
  • Disregarding traffic laws
  • Operating a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol

2. Environmental Conditions

Bad weather can make traveling by car hazardous. Rain, snow, and ice make roads slippery, reducing the vehicle’s grip and decreasing reaction time. Furthermore, low visibility caused by fog or darkness can be a major cause of collisions.

3. Vehicle Issues

Vehicle issues, such as issues with the brakes, tyres, or other parts of a vehicle can make it harder to drive and increase the chances of an accident occurring.

4. Road Design

Poor road designs can enable accidents to occur due to a lack of visibility, sharp turns, and other inefficient elements of the road.

5. Fast Driving

Driving too quickly can be very dangerous. When you drive faster than the speed limit, you don’t have enough time to adjust to any sudden changes in the road or obstacles that may appear.

Tips on How to Avoid Road Accidents

1. Drive Defensively

Pay attention to the environment around you and remain alert to potential dangers. Reduce your speed and maintain a safe distance between you and other vehicles.

2. Use Safety Features

Make the most of the safety elements that your car offers such as its anti-lock brakes, stability control and traction control. Utilise these features to get the best protection when driving.

3. Avoid Distractions

Don’t allow yourself to be distracted while driving by outside influences, such as your phone. Keep your attention on the road and your hands securely on the wheel.

4. Stay Alert

Be conscious of what is happening around you while in your vehicle. Don’t operate a car if you feel fatigued or if your driving ability has been impaired by drugs or alcohol.

5. Obey Traffic Signals

Obey all applicable traffic regulations – respect the speed limit and pay attention to the traffic lights.

6. Maintain Your Vehicle

Check that your car is running smoothly and that all parts are correctly functioning at all times.

7. Plan Ahead

Plan to arrive earlier than necessary, so you don’t have to rush.

8. Be Cautious in Poor Conditions

When driving in bad weather or low visibility, take extra care to drive more slowly and carefully than usual. Be aware of potential hazards and take extra precautions to ensure your safety.

Conclusion

Road accidents are a major issue and can be prevented by taking necessary precautions. To avoid road accidents, drivers should drive within the speed limit, not drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs and follow the traffic rules. Drivers should drive carefully in bad weather conditions, keep distractions to a minimum, ensure that their vehicles are properly maintained, take regular breaks while driving and avoid reckless driving.

Have you been in a car accident and made a claim? Start the conversation with a car accident lawyer in Perth at D’Angelo Legal. We are an established full-service law firm committed to providing our clients with solutions to resolve their legal challenges.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or establish a solicitor-client relationship. The content is provided as is, without express or implied warranties of any kind or considering your circumstances. This article is not intended to be a substitute for obtaining legal advice from a solicitor. Readers are encouraged to consult their legal advisors for specific legal advice tailored to their needs. No reader should act or refrain from acting based on this article’s information without seeking professional legal advice.