Car accidents are a significant public safety concern across the globe, leading to loss of life, severe injuries, and substantial economic costs each year. Understanding why they happen is key to becoming more aware of potential risks and staying safe on the road.
Distracted driving
Distracted driving is, unsurprisingly, one of the leading causes of traffic accidents. In Ohio, it has caused over 58,000 crashes since 2019. Using phones or eating while driving are two common forms of distraction that many drivers are guilty of. A split-second lapse in attention is often all it takes to cause an accident.
Speeding
Driving above the speed limit doesn’t just increase the likelihood of an accident but also amplifies the severity of the crash. Higher speeds make it difficult to control the vehicle, especially when there’s a need to quickly react to road conditions.
Drunk driving
Despite strict laws and awareness campaigns, driving under the influence of alcohol remains a major cause of road accidents. Alcohol impairs thinking, reasoning, and muscle coordination, all of which are crucial to safely operating a vehicle.
Poor weather conditions
If you’ve ever driven through fog or a massive snowstorm, you know how hard it is to stay on the road. Harsh weather conditions like rain, snow, and ice affect visibility and road grip. This can cause vehicles to skin or collide with one another.
While some accidents are inevitable, most are preventable with the right precautions. Staying alert and aware of your surroundings is the best way to ensure road safety.
