There are many reasons traffic accidents occur so often on California roads. And in some cases, there seems to be no explanation at all, except that some local drivers are crazy.
Perhaps a quick rundown of the top bad choices and absent-minded decisions can help us all avoid this behavior the next time we hop on the 5, Highway 101, or Highway 99.
Below is a list of the most common causes of car accidents and links to articles where each particular hazard is discussed further:
- Distracted Driving – The cell phone has surpassed every other distraction for drivers. Some accidents are officially blamed on cell phones. But in some cell phone-related accidents, the driver never admits their texting or swiping caused a crash.
- Speeding – Motorists can ignore the posted speed limit and lose control. The speed only increases the impact force and the potential for serious consequences for all involved.
- Aggressive Driving – Drivers can make bad traffic conditions worse when they whip in and out of crowded lanes, or ride someone’s bumper.
- Driving Under the Influence – Every ounce of attention must be on the lanes ahead to prevent California accidents. A driver who has consumed alcohol or taken drugs before getting on a freeway or boulevard loses the ability to focus and make good decisions.
- Intersection Mistake – The (NHTSA) reports that about 36% of U.S. accidents documented over a three-year period involved cars turning or crossing at an intersection. Intersections are dangerous spots where traffic converges. Drivers can be pressured into making mistakes that affect multiple vehicles.
- Running a Stop Sign or Red Light – Another intersection-specific accident. Other drivers can trust that other motorists will slow down, stop, and follow the right-of-way. When drivers race on through, powerful collisions occur.
- Young Drivers — Teen drivers don’t have the driving experience necessary to keep other motorists safe. They may also be lacking good judgment.
- Elderly Drivers – A senior driver may have diminished reflexes and also have cognitive deficiencies that can lead to a collision. An unexpectedly slow-moving car can be just as prone to cause impacts as a speeder.
- Road Rage – Crowded interstates and highways become dangerous routes when drivers unleash their anger and try to purposely scare someone or cause them to crash.
- Drowsy Driving – Drivers may get in the passenger seat with too little sleep to bank on. They can nod off or stay awake but suffer from slowed recognition and reflexes.
