subject: Automobile Accidents: What Are The Most Common Accident Causes? [print this page] Car accidents happen every day, and some estimates say that over a million people die every year due to a car accident. But who is causing all of these accidents? Who, or what, is responsible for people dying around the world?
One of the number one causes of car accidents is distracted drivers. Every year, anywhere from 20 to 50 percent of all car accidents occur because the driver of the vehicle is distracted. There are a number of reasons why a person might be distracted when they are driving. First is what is known as rubbernecking. Rubbernecking is when the driver slows down to look at another accident or to look at something on the side of the road. When you look to the side, you may automatically make your car follow where youre looking, which can cause a disastrous accident. But drivers can get distracted for a variety of reasons, from changing the music on the radio or CD to talking on their cell phone. It is important, when youre driving, to make sure that your attention stays on the road at all times.
Have you ever driven and been constantly yawning? If you have, it may be time to pull over and get some rest. Some research shows that there are over 100,000 accidents every year in the United States that are caused by drivers who have fallen asleep at the wheel. If you find that your vehicle is drifting over the line, or if youre feeling fidgety or having a hard time staying awake, pull your car over and get out for a bit or take a little nap. This could save your life and someone elses.
Drunk driving is also responsible for thousands of automobile crashes every year. This is one type of car accident that is easy to fix--simply dont drive when youre drinking. Thats all you have to do to save your life and the lives of people who could be hit due to your negligence. If you are drinking for the evening at a place that is not your home, make sure you have a designated driver, or that youre able to catch a cab or a ride from a friend to get home.
