There is a risk every time that people get in their vehicles and drive in Louisiana. People can control their own actions and may drive very carefully. However, they cannot control other drivers. When other drivers make erratic lane changes, take unnecessary risks, use their phones and make other poor decisions, they may hit other drivers who are doing everything correctly.
There are many different reasons for car accidents. Some of the more common causes of accidents include:
Common causes of car accidents
- Distracted driving: Drivers may use their phones, eat or drink, look at various events or objects on the side of the road, turn to look at passengers in the vehicle and do other things that take their eyes off the road and turn their attention away from driving safely.
- Speeding: Driving faster than the speed limit or too fast for the road conditions can cause people to lose control more easily and also makes stopping time longer than it should be based on the speed limit and road conditions.
- Reckless driving: Speeding can be part of reckless driving, but when drivers make risky lane changes or drive too close to other drivers, accidents become more likely
- Running stop signs or red lights: All drivers need to follow the rules of the road. One of the most important is to obey stop signs and red lights. All drivers have the expectation that other vehicles will be stop at red lights and when ones vehicle runs a red, there is usually very little time to react.
- Driving under the influence: Driving after drinking too much alcohol or being under the influence of drugs can reduce reaction time and impair judgment.
There are other reasons that motor vehicle accidents occur in Louisiana, but understanding the common ones can make it easier to avoid accidents. However, as stated above, even the safest drivers can become victims of car accidents. The innocent victims may suffer serious injuries and it is important that these victims are properly compensated for their damages. Experienced attorneys understand the devastation car accidents cause and may be a useful resource.