The Top Causes of Car Accidents and How to Avoid Them

Car accidents are a significant concern in Texas, causing injuries, property damage, and emotional distress for countless individuals each year.

At The Law Office of Steve Brannan in Odessa, Texas, we seek to offer guidance to those affected by car accidents while emphasizing the importance of preventive measures. 

Here, we’ll explore the top causes of car accidents in Texas, and a few practical tips for avoiding them.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a leading cause of car accidents in Texas. Activities like texting, talking on the phone, eating, or even adjusting the radio can take a driver’s attention away from the road. Texas law prohibits texting while driving, highlighting the state's commitment to reducing this dangerous behavior.

To avoid distractions, keep your phone out of reach while driving, set up directions and music before hitting the road, and focus solely on driving. Awareness of your surroundings can significantly reduce the risk of an accident. Next, let’s examine how speeding contributes to crashes.

Speeding

Exceeding the speed limit is another major contributor to car accidents in Texas. Speeding reduces the time needed to react to road hazards and increases the severity of collisions. Texas roads, particularly in areas like Odessa and surrounding highways, often see accidents caused by drivers traveling too fast for conditions.

To avoid speeding, plan your trips with extra time to reach your destination and pay attention to posted speed limits. Adjust your speed based on road conditions, such as heavy traffic or bad weather. From speeding, we now turn to impaired driving as a significant factor in accidents.

Driving Under the Influence

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs poses a severe risk to all road users. Texas imposes strict penalties for driving while intoxicated (DWI), but impaired driving remains a problem statewide. Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, reaction times, and motor skills, making it difficult to operate a vehicle safely.

Avoid driving under the influence by designating a sober driver, using rideshare services, or arranging alternate transportation if you plan to drink. Making responsible choices protects not only yourself but also others on the road. Moving on, we’ll look at how running red lights and stop signs creates dangerous situations.

Running Red Lights and Stop Signs

Failing to obey traffic signals is a common cause of intersection accidents. Drivers who run red lights or stop signs often collide with other vehicles, leading to severe injuries. In Texas, running a red light carries penalties, including fines and points on a driving record, yet the behavior persists.

To prevent such accidents, approach intersections with caution and come to a full stop at stop signs. Yield to other vehicles and pedestrians, even if you’re in a hurry. Next, let’s discuss the dangers of aggressive driving and road rage.

Aggressive Driving and Road Rage

Aggressive driving behaviors like tailgating, weaving through traffic, and making rude gestures increase the likelihood of accidents. Road rage incidents, in particular, can escalate quickly and lead to dangerous confrontations on Texas roads.

If you encounter an aggressive driver, avoid engaging or retaliating. Give them space and focus on driving safely. Diffusing tense situations can help prevent unnecessary collisions. Now, let’s explore the risks associated with driving in bad weather.

Driving in Bad Weather

Texas experiences a range of weather conditions, including heavy rain, fog, and high winds, all of which can make driving more hazardous. Slippery roads and reduced visibility are common factors in weather-related accidents.

When driving in bad weather, reduce your speed, use your headlights appropriately, and maintain a safe following distance. Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns, as these can cause you to lose control of your vehicle. With bad weather addressed, let’s consider another factor: inexperienced drivers.

Inexperienced Drivers

New or inexperienced drivers often lack the skills and confidence to handle challenging road situations. This inexperience can lead to errors such as misjudging distances, failing to yield, or panicking in emergencies.

Parents and guardians should encourage new drivers to practice under various conditions and enroll them in driver education courses. Experience and preparation can significantly improve driving safety. Now that we’ve covered these causes, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions about car accidents in Texas.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents in Texas

Many drivers have concerns about car accidents and how to handle the aftermath. Below are answers to some common questions:

• What should I do immediately after a car accident?
  First, check for injuries and call 911 if necessary. Exchange information with the other driver and document the scene with photos and notes.

• When should I report an accident to the police?
  In Texas, you must report an accident if there are injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage. Filing a police report helps with insurance claims and legal processes.

• How can I determine fault in a car accident?
  Fault is determined by examining evidence like witness statements, police reports, and traffic laws. An attorney can help review the details of your case.

• Will my insurance rates go up after an accident?
  Insurance rates may increase if you’re found at fault for the accident. However, some companies offer accident forgiveness programs.

• Do I need an attorney after a car accident?
  Consulting an attorney can help you understand your rights, evaluate damages, and negotiate with insurance companies.

These answers provide a foundation for addressing concerns after an accident. Next, let’s consider some common mechanical failures that drivers should stay ahead of to avoid accidents.

Common Mechanical Failures That Lead to Car Accidents

Mechanical failures are another significant cause of car accidents in Texas, often overlooked by drivers. Regular vehicle maintenance can prevent these issues and improve safety on the road. Below are some common mechanical failures that contribute to accidents:

• Brake failure: Worn-out brake pads or malfunctioning brake systems can make it difficult to stop in time, leading to rear-end collisions or other accidents. Regular brake inspections can help catch issues early.

• Tire blowouts: Underinflated, overinflated, or worn tires can lead to blowouts, especially at high speeds. Maintaining proper tire pressure and replacing worn tires reduces this risk.

• Steering system malfunctions: Issues with the power steering system can make it hard to control your vehicle, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Checking the steering system during routine maintenance is essential.

• Engine or transmission failures: Sudden engine or transmission failure can cause your vehicle to stall in dangerous locations, like intersections or highways. Routine check-ups and addressing warning signs promptly can prevent these breakdowns.

• Lighting system issues: Faulty headlights, brake lights, or turn signals reduce visibility for you and other drivers, increasing the risk of accidents at night or during bad weather. Regularly checking your lights can improve safety.

Mechanical failures are preventable with proper care and attention to your vehicle. Knowing the common causes of car accidents equips drivers with the knowledge needed to make safer choices on the road. Practicing defensive driving, staying focused, and adhering to traffic laws all contribute to reducing accidents in Texas. 

Drivers should also maintain their vehicles to avoid mechanical failures that could lead to crashes.

Reach Out to Us With Any Personal Injury Cases

We strive to offer guidance to individuals in Odessa, Midland, Big Spring, Pecos, Andrews, and throughout communities in West Texas. If you’ve been involved in a car accident and need legal assistance, contact us at The Law Office of Steve Brannan to learn how we can help.