Consistently, Texas is ranked as one of the most dangerous states for drivers. Reports that look at and analyze car accident fatalities find that Texas has some of the worst drivers and leads in the number of collisions per capita. But what causes these accidents? It turns out, it’s mostly human error. In fact, over 90% of all accidents are completely preventable. Below, we’ll look at the habits some drivers have that contribute to the high number of collisions we see across Texas.
Speeding
The number one cause of collisions in Texas is speeding. According to the Department of Transportation, over 130,000 accidents we caused simply because a driver failed to control their speed. What’s more concerning is that speeding is also the leading cause of traffic fatalities. Across the U.S, 9,717 people died in accidents caused by speeding. The truth is, higher speed limits lead to more accidents according to the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety. Texas is well known for having the highest speed limits in the country, with some roads going as high as 85 miles per hour.
The reason speeding is so unsafe, is because of all the new dangers drivers have to account for. When your speed increases, the control of your vehicle decreases. On top of this lack of control, you have to compensate for your increased stopping distance. This combined with a more server impact can make for a much more dangerous situation. For your safety, and for the safety of others on the road, be sure to keep your speed limit in check. It might just save someone’s life.
Distracted Driving
Right behind speeding, distracted driving comes in second place. One out of every five accidents in the U.S is caused by distracted driving. The invention of cell phones and the increasing popularity of social media have contributed to the rise in distracted driving. If you find yourself constantly being distracted by your phone, many devices have a “driving mode” option, to keep you focused on the road, instead of your phone. Just like everything else on this list so far, distracted driving reduces your reaction time. This could lead to an accident, that would otherwise have been preventable if you were paying attention.
Drunk Driving
While Texas has seen a slight decrease in drunk driving fatalities, it doesn’t make the act any less dangerous. According to national statistics, over half of all drivers are likely to be involved in an accident involving alcohol. The lack of judgment and motor function while intoxicated greatly increases the chances you have of getting into an accident. Always remember to drive sober. It’s always better to pay for a cab than to end up in jail, or worse.
San Antonio Accident Lawyer.
Have you or a loved one been in a serious car crash and suffered injuries? If so, you should contact an experienced Personal Injury attorney. Villarreal and Begum is a local San Antonio firm that will fight to get you the compensation that you deserve. We serve clients all across Texas with offices in San Antonio, McAllen, and Laredo. We are available day and night to take your calls. Call or contact us via our website. The Law Guns will fight for you.
The Villarreal & Begum, LAW GUNS dedicates their time and effort towards helping people in Texas find justice for personal negligence encountered while living their normal, everyday lives.