Driver Behavior and Car Accidents

Driver behavior is a leading cause of car accidents throughout the United States. Drivers are only human, and humans make mistakes. They are susceptible to distractions and may act recklessly, weaving in and out of traffic or driving drunk. All of this behavior may cause an accident to occur or may lead to that driver being involved in an accident that has already taken place. Let's take a look at a few types of drivers that may present a hazard to others on the road:

Distracted drivers – A driver who does not have his or her full attention on the road presents a serious danger indeed. A distracted driver may unintentionally run a red light, may veer out of his or her lane or may not notice a change in traffic or road conditions until it is too late.

Aggressive drivers – An aggressive driver may be described as a driver who acts in an overly assertive way, showing a readiness or tendency to attack. On the road, this may take on many forms: tailgating, flashing lights, honking, deliberately obstructing another vehicle's path, weaving in and out of traffic, or speeding.

Drunk drivers – Alcohol may impair a driver's judgment, vision, reaction time and physical abilities. Drunk drivers place themselves and everyone on the road around them in serious danger when they take to the road. According to NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) statistics, approximately one-third of fatal traffic accidents involve a driver who has an unlawful blood alcohol concentration.

Elderly drivers – Age can have an impact on one's driving abilities. Loss of vision and hearing, physical frailty and side effects from medication can affect an elderly person's ability to drive safely. Although not all elderly drivers are unable to drive, this is an issue to consider in some collisions.

Inexperienced drivers – Inexperienced drivers may not know how to respond to an emergency situation on the road. They may not be familiar with traffic laws or may simply lack the skills that come with driving on a regular basis. They are therefore more likely to be involved in car accidents.

Driver Conduct – the Most Common Cause of Car Accidents

The different types of driver conduct that may lead to a car accident are virtually innumerable. They may stem from distraction, aggression, inexperience or alcohol, but the consequences are all the same. They cause property damage, serious injury or even the wrongful death of other drivers, passengers, pedestrians or bicyclists.

If you were involved in a car accident that was caused by a driver who was talking on the phone, texting while driving, adjusting the radio, speeding, weaving in and out of traffic, driving aggressively or who violated a traffic law, you may have grounds to seek compensation from that driver for his or her behavior. An attorney can review your options with you and can help you with your claim.

Find a car accident lawyer in your area to get legal help with your claim.