Why You Should Know the Most Common Causes of Car Accidents

There are millions of car accidents in the United States each year. Crashes remain one of the leading causes of death in the country. Tragically, many of these accidents are preventable, caused by impairment, recklessness, or distraction. If you are injured in a car accident, it is strongly recommended that you speak with an attorney as soon as possible to determine your rights and responsibilities after the collision.

At Flesch & Beck Law, we represent car accident victims who have been injured in Denver and the surrounding areas. Our lawyers are trial-tested. We are not afraid to litigate your case in order to get you the results you deserve. We know the law and will work tirelessly to maximize your damages, ensuring you get the largest possible recovery in your case. If you were injured in a car accident, contact our office to schedule a free consultation.

Here are the 5 most common causes of auto accidents in 2023:

Drunk and Impaired Driving

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 37 people die in drunk driving accidents every day. That means one person dies every 39 minutes as a result of an alcohol-impaired driver.

Over 30% of all accident-related fatalities involved a drunk driver, meaning the operator had a blood alcohol concentration of .08% or higher. Over 10,000 people have died every year for the past decade in drunk driving crashes.

Impairment may begin earlier than most people think. Even one drink may impair your judgment, reaction time, and your ability to drive. According to NHTSA:

• A BAC of .02% may cause “some loss of judgment.” It may also result in a decline in visual functions and the ability to perform two tasks at the same time.
• A BAC of .05% can result in “exaggerated behavior” and may cause a loss of small-muscle control. It can also result in impaired judgment, reduced coordination, and a reduced response time.

• A BAC of .08% may result in poor muscle coordination, difficulty in detecting danger, and impaired judgment or reasoning. It may also cause short-term memory loss and impaired perception.

• A BAC of .10% or higher can cause slurred speech, the reduced ability to drive within a lane, substantial impairment, and a major loss of balance.

Impairment is not only caused by alcohol. Over-the-counter, illicit, and prescription drugs may also cause impairment, making it dangerous to drive.

Speeding and Reckless Driving

NHTSA reports that nearly one-third of traffic fatalities involve speeding. According to the most recent data available, there were over 12,300 people killed in speeding accidents. This marked a 14-year high.

Speeding and other reckless driving activities, such as tailgating and weaving in and out of lanes, can cause devastating accidents and injuries. Speeding reduces your control over the vehicle and increases the amount of time you need to stop. Many speeding and reckless driving crashes are catastrophic, resulting in incapacitating injuries or death.

Distracted Driving

Thousands of people die in distracted driving accidents each year. Texting while driving, playing with the radio, talking with passengers, and any activities that take your attention away from the road can result in serious injuries.

Car accidents involving distracted drivers are common at intersections. Inattentive motorists frequently cause rear-end collisions that can cause whiplash and other head and neck trauma.

Poor Weather Conditions

A number of car accidents are caused by inclement weather. From heavy rains to blinding snow, poor weather conditions can wreak havoc on roadways across the United States. Motorists must take extra care to ensure that they do not put themselves or others at risk for serious injury.

Running Red Lights and Stop Signs

Another leading cause of car accidents is when motorists run red lights and stop signs. Failing to observe traffic signals and stop signs can result in dangerous t-bone collisions. These side-impact accidents can cause irreparable harm to other motorists and passengers.

Navigating the Claims Process

Colorado follows a fault-based insurance system, meaning that you are able to pursue a claim against an at-fault driver. If you suffer personal injuries after a car accident caused by another person, you should consult with an attorney. An attorney can help you navigate the claims process.

In many cases, who or what caused the accident may not be straightforward. An attorney can help conduct an independent investigation to determine who may be held liable for your injuries. They can also negotiate with the insurance company to attempt to get you a full and fair settlement or set your case for trial if a favorable outcome cannot be reached outside of court.

Evidence often proves critical in cases of disputed liability or serious injuries. Witness statements, police reports, and photos may help to determine who can be held legally responsible while keeping a detailed record of your harm can help prove your injuries. It is important to provide documentation of your injuries, such as medical bills and a journal of your treatments, to your attorney.

Choosing the Right Attorney

If you are involved in a car accident, it can be overwhelming to try and choose the right attorney. Choosing an attorney may be one of the most important decisions you make after a crash. Without the help of an attorney, you could end up settling your case for less than it is worth. Insurance companies routinely deny claims or downplay injuries in an effort to pay as little as possible. An attorney can help fight to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Flesch & Beck Injury Attorneys

Were you injured in a car accident? Our legal team will work with you to determine all of your legal options, including whether you have a valid claim for damages. At Flesch & Beck Law, we know how challenging the days and weeks are after an accident. We are here to help. Contact our office today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.

Early retention of an attorney may prove essential to your case. Do not wait to consult with a lawyer. Your recovery may depend on the steps that you take after an accident. Get the help you need now before it is too late.