As a car accident lawyer in Santa Monica, we have seen many clients who have been involved in accidents caused by a variety of factors. While there are many different causes of car accidents, there are some that are more common than others. In this blog post, we will discuss the most common causes of car accidents in Santa Monica and what you can do to avoid them.
Distracted Driving
One of the most common causes of car accidents in Santa Monica is distracted driving. Distracted driving occurs when a driver is not fully focused on the road ahead. This can include texting, talking on the phone, eating, adjusting the radio, or even just daydreaming. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving was responsible for 2,841 deaths in 2018 alone.
To avoid distracted driving, it’s important to keep your eyes on the road at all times. Avoid using your phone or engaging in other distracting activities while you’re driving. If you do need to use your phone or other devices, pull over to a safe location first.
Speeding
Speeding is another common cause of car accidents in Santa Monica. Driving over the speed limit can increase the likelihood of an accident and also increase the severity of injuries sustained in a crash. According to the NHTSA, speeding was responsible for 9,378 deaths in 2018.
To avoid speeding, it’s important to always obey the posted speed limit. Remember that the speed limit is not a suggestion; it’s the maximum safe speed for the road you’re on. If you’re running late or in a hurry, plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination.
Impaired Driving
Impaired driving is a serious problem in Santa Monica and throughout the United States. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol can impair your judgment, vision, and reaction time, making it more likely that you will be involved in a car accident. According to the NHTSA, alcohol-impaired driving was responsible for 10,142 deaths in 2019.
To avoid impaired driving, never get behind the wheel if you’ve been drinking or using drugs. If you plan to drink, make sure you have a designated driver or use a ride-sharing service to get home safely.
Reckless Driving
Reckless driving includes things like tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, and failing to yield to other drivers. It’s one of the most dangerous types of driving behavior and is a common cause of car accidents in Santa Monica. According to the NHTSA, reckless driving was responsible for 9,378 deaths in 2018.
To avoid reckless driving, always follow the rules of the road and be respectful of other drivers. Avoid tailgating and never try to “beat” a red light. Remember that defensive driving can help keep you and your passengers safe.
Weather Conditions
Santa Monica is known for its beautiful weather, but that doesn’t mean that driving conditions are always perfect. Rain, snow, and ice can all make driving more difficult and increase the likelihood of a car accident. According to the NHTSA, weather-related crashes were responsible for 1,235 deaths in 2019.
To avoid weather-related accidents, make sure your vehicle is properly equipped for the conditions. This may include using snow tires, driving more slowly, and increasing your following distance.
Car accidents can have serious consequences, both physically and financially. While there are many different causes of car accidents, it’s important to remember that most of them are preventable. By following the rules of the road and being a responsible driver, you can help keep yourself and others safe on the roads. If you have been involved in a car accident in Santa Monica, it’s important to seek the help of an experienced car accident lawyer like Cohen Legal. Our team has helped countless clients recover compensation for their injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. We understand the complexities of car accident cases and will work tirelessly to protect your rights and interests.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact us at Cohen Legal to schedule a free consultation and discuss your case with an experienced car accident lawyer. We are committed to helping you get the justice and compensation you deserve.