Car accidents are among the leading causes of injury and financial loss in the United States. In many cases, these crashes are not merely accidents but the result of negligence—a failure to exercise reasonable care on the road. When someone else’s negligence causes an accident, the injured party may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering.
Understanding the most frequent causes of car accidents and the evidence needed to prove negligence is critical for building a strong legal case.
While accidents can happen for many reasons, certain driving behaviors significantly increase the risk of collisions. Some of the most common causes of car accidents include:
One of the most prevalent causes of accidents today, distracted driving occurs when a driver’s attention is diverted from the road. This includes:
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving claimed 3,522 lives in 2021. Since looking away from the road for even a few seconds can cause a crash, distracted drivers can often be held liable for resulting injuries.
Exceeding the posted speed limit or driving too fast for conditions reduces reaction time and increases the severity of crashes. The NHTSA reports that 29% of all fatal crashes in 2021 were related to speeding. A speeding driver may be held liable for an accident if it is proven they were traveling at an unsafe speed when the collision occurred.
Alcohol and drug-impaired driving significantly impairs judgment, reaction time, and coordination. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that one person dies every 45 minutes in the U.S. due to drunk driving. A driver who operates a vehicle while intoxicated and causes an accident is almost always considered negligent in a personal injury claim.
Traffic laws exist to prevent accidents, but when drivers fail to follow them, the risk of collisions increases. Common violations that lead to crashes include:
Traffic violations can serve as clear evidence of negligence in a car accident case.
Aggressive driving behaviors, such as tailgating, weaving in and out of lanes, and road rage, put everyone on the road in danger. Drivers who engage in these behaviors are not only negligent but may also face criminal penalties if their actions result in an accident.
While drivers cannot control the weather, they are expected to adjust their driving behavior in poor conditions. Speeding on wet, icy, or foggy roads can lead to preventable accidents. In some cases, local governments or road maintenance agencies may also be liable if poorly maintained roads or missing signs contribute to a crash.
To succeed in a car accident injury claim, four key elements must be proven:
Collecting strong evidence is crucial for establishing liability in a car accident case. Some of the most effective forms of evidence include:
Why Legal Representation Matters
Navigating the complexities of car accident claims can be challenging, especially when insurance companies attempt to minimize payouts. Working with an experienced personal injury attorney ensures that victims receive proper legal guidance, gather strong evidence, and maximize their compensation.
At Aronberg & Aronberg, Injury Law Firm, we are dedicated to helping accident victims secure the compensation they deserve. Our firm has a proven track record of handling complex car accident claims, and we work diligently to hold negligent drivers accountable.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence, contact us today for a free consultation. We are here to help you understand your legal options and fight for your rights.
