The 5 Most Lethal Mistakes a Driver Can Make

With driving comes great responsibility. From the moment our parents give us their beat-up car to the day we’ve saved enough to buy our own, we must exhibit a safe obligation on the road. But sometimes mistakes happen. Unfortunately, the smallest mistake can be enough to cause severe injury or death. It’s extremely important to know and comprehend the most common and deadly mistakes that a driver can make to avoid them and help keep the roads safer.

Drowsy Driving

You wouldn’t handle a chainsaw in a sleepy state or try to mow the lawn with heavy eyelids, so why would driving while drowsy be an option? The acting chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board has revealed that driving in a drowsy state can be as dangerous as driving while intoxicated. In 2007, almost 1,500 deaths occurred as a result of driving and most accidents happen between 3 a.m. and 6 a.m., the times most people are adapted to sleep. Make it a habit to rest well before getting in your car. Doing so may be the difference between life and death.

Overreacting

How often have you panicked as a car got uncomfortably close, steered the wheel the opposite direction to avoid impact, and nearly caused an accident at the other end of the road? Sudden over-steering can be considered an impending rollover due to the fast action involved and the vehicle’s momentum. Accidents due to overreacting at the wheel are responsible for 4% of all vehicular accidents in the nation. Avoid the severe injuries that can result from a rollover accident by remaining calm on the road at all times.

Swerving

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2007, a total of 15,574 people died as a result of drivers who veered off their lane. It’s one of the simplest mistakes a person can make, but when you’re operating tons of metal at high speeds, this small error can be very costly and deadly.

Speeding

Getting to your destination in a timely manner is important, but doing so by speeding can lead to accidents, injuries and even death. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, speeding is the second-highest cause of death in car crashes. About 30% of deaths occur when drivers exceed the 55 mph “danger zone”. Make arrangements to leave for your destination earlier and you can keep yourself and your loved ones from suffering the dangers of a car accident.

Intoxicated Driving

The statistics for drunk driving are extremely alarming. According to records, 60% of fatalities in nighttime crashes during 2007 showed drinking was a significant factor. Drunk driving deaths are so common that one occurs every 40 minutes. If you plan to have a night of fun, play it safe. Choose a designated driver to get you and your friends to your destinations safely.

Help When You Need It

There’s no reason why you should suffer through the pain and anguish that result from another driver’s actions. A caring and thoroughly professional personal injury lawyer can assist you with the legal backing you need to get the financial compensation you deserve. You don’t have to suffer through the stress medical bills, car repairs and lost wages can bring. An attorney can be at your side to help you get the justice you rightfully deserve. Located in the heart of Austin, we are here to serve you.