Auto accidents cost the US economy a staggering $340 billion each year in lost earnings and more.

There are around 14 accidents per minute, with a fatality every 12 minutes. Sadly, many accidents could be avoided if drivers took more care. Here are the most common causes of car accidents on US roads.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents in the United States, killing 3,300 people in 2022. Drivers get easily distracted by their cell phones, music players, GPS systems, passengers, and even while eating or drinking. Taking your eyes off the road for just 2 seconds doubles the chances of an accident. Texting while driving is especially dangerous as it involves visual, cognitive and manual distractions simultaneously. Studies show that texting drivers have slower reaction times than drunk drivers. It's recommended to search for an experienced lawyer if you were in an auto accident caused by a distracted driver, as they can help you understand your legal options, gather crucial evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

When looking for the right legal representation, focus on lawyers who regularly handle car accident and distracted driving cases. You can consult with Edward P. Shaughnessy personal injury attorney, or another trusted lawyer who has relevant experience with insurance negotiations and courtroom litigation. This background gives you a clearer picture of what to expect from the claims process and potential case outcomes.

Drowsy Driving

Drowsy driving leads to thousands of automobile crashes every year and is a factor in 21% of fatal accidents. Fatigue slows reaction time, affects awareness and impairs judgment just like alcohol does. Driving after being awake for 18 hours is similar to driving with a blood alcohol content level of about .05%. Drowsiness makes drivers less able to pay attention to the road, reduce speed or react in time to road conditions and sudden hazards. Shift workers, commercial drivers, teens and people with sleep disorders have the highest risk. Taking short 15-20 minute power naps and consuming caffeine can provide short-term alertness.

Speeding

While nearly everyone speeds at some times, driving above speed limits or too fast for the road conditions is extremely hazardous. Excess speed reduces a driver's ability to steer and brake safely reducing the response time available to react to emergency road situations. At higher speeds, a vehicle travels greater distances during driver reaction time which makes crashing more likely. Higher speeds in crashes also lead to more severe injuries. Male drivers under age 30 are involved in most speed-related crashes.

The impact from speeding can leave massive damage to your vehicle and result in costly repairs that may not always be feasible. Drivers need to know when is a car considered totaled and how insurance companies determine whether repair costs exceed the vehicle's value. Understanding this process can help motorists make informed decisions about claims and replacements. It also highlights the importance of practicing safe driving habits to avoid life-threatening accidents and financial burdens.

Alcohol or Drug Impairment

Around one-third of all traffic crash fatalities in the U.S. involve drunk driving, with 13,524 deaths in 2022. Drunk driving remains a primary contributor to motor vehicle crashes despite increased social awareness and stricter legislation. Alcohol impairment slows reaction times, decreases awareness, affects judgement of speed and distance and reduces coordination. Both prescription and illegal drugs also affect the mental and motor skills required for safe driving. A combination of alcohol and drugs can have much graver effects on road safety.

Reckless Driving

Reckless driving behaviors like speed contests, exhibition of speed, passing in a dangerous no-passing zone or running red lights dangerously ignores safety of other drivers to gain thrill or save time. Most reckless drivers are young males in the age range of 18-34 years. States prosecute reckless driving strictly through heavy fines, license suspensions or cancellations and even jail time in extreme cases.

Consult an accident attorney if someone else caused your crash. An experienced accident lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and options to recover compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, vehicle repairs and other losses.