An experienced Bluffton car accident lawyer can safely state that most crash cases they handle could have been prevented. Driver negligence remains at the top of all possible car accident causes. This negligence takes many forms, which we will discuss below.
We will also offer advice on how to avoid becoming the negligent driver who causes a crash resulting in injuries and damages both for you and for another driver and their passengers.
1. Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is the number one cause of car crashes due to negligence. There are many ways in which a driver can be distracted behind the wheel. The most common instance is, without a doubt, texting and driving.
However, any kind of attempt to multitask while driving can result in an accident. Eating, drinking, talking to passengers or applying makeup are all activities incompatible with driving.
Just a few seconds of not paying full attention to the task of driving are enough to cause a severe accident. For example, if you are not paying attention for 5 seconds while driving at 60 mph, you are covering a distance of 440 feet without being fully aware of the other vehicles around you.
Never multitask while driving.
2. Speeding
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) calculated that 12,151 people died in the U.S. in 2022 in car accidents caused by speeding. And this is the main reason why speed limits exist.
Even highly trained professional drivers can make mistakes at very high speeds. The average driver can lose control over their vehicle and crash into another vehicle in just a moment. And an impact at a very high speed is felt extremely forcefully, often resulting in fatalities or catastrophic injuries.
Remember that it is always better to arrive a bit later than to risk suffering severe injuries and causing harm and suffering to another.
3. Driving Under the Influence
Many people who hire a Bluffton car accident lawyer to help them file a claim were hit by a drunk driver. This is one of the worst instances of negligence. And despite severe DUI laws in South Carolina, many drivers choose to drive after drinking alcohol.
The main problem when it comes to trying to avoid a crash with a drunk driver is their unpredictable conduct on the road. Sometimes, they will speed or drive very slowly. In other cases, they are weaving in and out of traffic.
The best option is to give any such driver a wide berth and let them overtake you. It is not a competition – the only winners are those who arrive safely at their destination.
4. Drowsy Driving
Fatigued drivers are often a problem among truck drivers. But it can happen to anyone. Stress from work, poor sleep and other factors can create the perfect storm for falling asleep behind the wheel.
Never put your life and your loved one’s well being at risk. If you feel tired, postpone the drive or take a ridesharing vehicle.
5. Poor Weather or Road Conditions
Bad weather and poor road maintenance are common car accident causes. These instances do not completely eliminate the drivers’ duty of care towards other people who use the public roads.
However, an experienced attorney may also hold government authorities liable for the poor condition of the roads and highways. This is a complex legal process and requires a lot of experience and in-depth knowledge of the laws.
Injured in a Car Crash? Consult with a Skilled Bluffton Car Accident Lawyer!
Despite your best efforts, you may not be able to avoid getting hit by another driver. According to the law, you are entitled to receive compensation for economic and non-economic damages.
An experienced Bluffton car accident lawyer will examine the facts of your case and tell you if you have a valid claim. If you have a strong case, we will represent you on a contingency fee basis.
We also offer each new client a free case review, so call us today at 843-865-8624!
