Common Causes of Car Accidents in Rancho Mirage

Anytime you get inside a car or truck, you are at risk of being in a wreck. Motor vehicle accidents are one of the leading causes of accidental injury and death in most age groups. Learning more about the common causes of car accidents in Rancho Mirage may help you avoid accidents.

Driver negligence causes, or at least contributes to, most auto accidents. However, other factors may cause accidents, including vehicle defects, lack of car maintenance, and bad weather. An experienced personal injury attorney could investigate the cause of your car crash to determine liability and whether you have a claim.

Driver Error and Auto Accidents

Driver error is the leading cause of car wrecks in Rancho Mirage. Any failure to observe the law, behave reasonably, and drive safely can lead to an accident.

In the past, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol was the most dangerous choice a driver could make. Alcohol and drug impairment can severely impair judgment, increase reaction time, and lead to reckless driving. However, it is no longer the most dangerous thing a driver can do.

Today, distracted driving is the cause of most accidents. Anything that takes a driver’s eyes or mind off the road or their hands off the wheel can be distracting. Telephones and other mobile communication devices offer all these distractions, but eating or drinking while driving, putting on makeup, or even carrying on a conversation with passengers can be distractions.

Most people think of speeding as harmless. However, governments design speed limits to reflect the worst possible conditions, attempting to ensure that drivers will always have sufficient stopping distance for potential obstacles.

Aggressive driving may also lead to accidents. Tailgating, improper lane changes, and road rage can all lead to wrecks.

However, not all bad driving is caused by aggression. Sometimes, driving is reckless. Running red lights, failing to yield, or disobeying traffic signals are all examples of reckless driving. Improper turns also increase the risk of wrecks, including dangerous T-bone collisions.

Driver fatigue is another risk. Drowsy driving can be as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. However, unlike drunk driving, drowsy driving is not always a conscious decision. Drivers can quickly become exhausted without realizing it.

Inexperience can also lead to accidents. New drivers may make mistakes. One of their most common errors is a lack of experience dealing with the aggressive behavior of other drivers. The inexperienced driver may be the victim and not negligent, but defensive driving might still help them avoid an accident.

Other Causes of Car Wrecks

Poor weather conditions in Rancho Mirage can cause car crashes. Rain, ice, and fog may reduce visibility and traction. Air quality can also be an issue, as can high winds and even dust storms. Anything that reduces visibility increases the risk of accidents.

Similarly, road hazards can contribute to car accidents. Potholes, debris, and other road hazards may be challenging to avoid. Hitting them may lead to loss of vehicle control, causing collisions between vehicles.

Vehicle malfunctions can also increase the risk of wrecks. These may be the result of defects in the vehicle, lack of proper maintenance, or improper repairs. Issues with the brakes, tires, or steering can all lead to accidents.

Explore the Common Reasons for Car Crashes in Rancho Mirage

Determining the cause of a car wreck is step one in determining liability, which is a critical step in getting you the help you need after an accident.

If you have been injured in a crash, a personal injury lawyer could help you find out the cause of the accident. Schedule a consultation today with the legal team at Walter Clark Legal Group. Our team’s knowledge of the common causes of car accidents in Rancho Mirage could help you determine the cause of your accident.