Automobile accidents occur for a variety of reasons. Many times, drivers are distracted and take their focus away from the road. Often drivers become fatigued after spending hours behind the wheel, which can result in an error of judgment. Accidents can occur for a combination of reasons, such as poor visibility, unsafe road design, or other drivers lacking caution. Although the causes of accidents vary, the consequences are often the same: property damage and severe injuries. If you have been injured in a car accident in Florida, contact The Ogle Law Firm.

DISTRACTED DRIVING

Distracted driving is the most common cause of road accidents in the United States. It results in more crashes every year than speeding, drunk driving, and other major accident causes. Drivers become distracted for a variety of reasons. Some leading causes include talking on the phone, texting, eating food while driving, or attempting to do other activities while behind the wheel.

SPEEDING

The second most common cause of road accidents in the United States is speeding. Car and truck accidents involving speed also cause significant incidences of fatal road injuries. Speeding is a common practice of illegal behavior that increases the risk of losing control of the vehicle and causing an accident. Even a small increase in speed can result in a much higher risk of collision. Drivers must be aware of the speed they are traveling and obey the speeding limits.

DRUNK DRIVING

Drunk driving is a significant cause of road accidents, especially on weekends and holidays. Driving and consuming alcohol affects the driver’s response time and ability to focus on the road. Drunk driving accidents are preventable. The driver should avoid alcohol or plan a designated driver if he or she expects to be drinking at social events.

RECKLESS DRIVING

Speeding, changing lanes without looking, tailgating, and ignoring road signs are all reckless driving concerns. Reckless driving is illegal, and it is the fourth most common cause of road accidents in the United States. Often the reckless driver is under the influence.

RAIN

Rain is another major cause of road accidents. When the road becomes wet, car tires can lose their grip and slide on the road surface, increasing the risk for an accident. Poor car maintenance, like tires that don’t provide a deep enough grip, or are not correctly inflated, can contribute to this risk. An inexperienced driver can panic in rainy weather, resulting in the loss of control of the vehicle. With the safety risk associated with driving in the rain, it is essential to be alert and aware of the road conditions, speed limits, and road traffic during rainy weather.

THINGS YOU SHOULD DO AFTER A CAR ACCIDENT

If you are a victim of a car accident, call the police first. The police can document the accident and record important information that will help with your insurance claim. If possible, move the car to a safe location. If this is not possible, ensure you are in a secure area away from traffic. Seek medical attention. If you do not see a doctor immediately, tell the attending officer if you have any pain at the accident scene. They will often note this finding in the report. Get names and contact information of any witnesses. Get the insurance policy number and company name from the driver who is at fault, which can speed up your accident case. Take pictures and video of the accident scene and the road conditions near the accident scene. Get a copy of the accident report and obtain the officer’s name if possible.

Do not give any formal statements to your insurance company or the other person’s insurance company without speaking to a Florida car accident attorney. Daytona Beach car accident attorney William Ogle and Parama Liberman are experienced, effective, and successful car accident attorneys who can help you with your accident case. You are entitled to seek monetary compensation for the injuries that have been caused by the negligence of others. Contact us or call for a free case review today. Phone (386) 253-2500