Driving a car is not as easy as it seems, particularly if you drive through the streets at night. There are many factors to consider when driving. You should remember that you’re sharing the road with many other drivers who may be traveling at different speeds and making unforeseen turns or stops without notice.
Road accidents occur for many reasons and causes, but most involve people failing to watch out while behind the wheel or doing something through negligence that leaves them no choice but to be involved in an accident.
You cannot totally avoid the risk of being involved in a traffic accident; however, you can take precautions to help reduce the risk of engaging in them. It is important to know the reasons why people become involved in traffic accidents so that you can take effective actions that can minimize the risks related to them.
Driving Too Fast
Most of the traffic accidents that occur every day involve people driving too fast. Speeding is probably the most common causes of traffic accidents in Maryland in last few years. If a person is driving over the speed limit, it is going to be tougher for him to control the car, particularly when he comes around a corner or has to stop unexpectedly because another vehicle makes an unforeseen turn or stop. Based on Maryland car accident statistics, there were 117,750 registered car accidents in 2018, with approximately 50,000 people injured. Driving at high speed can have dire consequences, so every time you drive, ensure you do not exceed the speed limit. Drive at a safe speed that enables you to have good control of your car and recognize possible hazards that require you to slow down quickly.
Driving Too Slow
Driving too slowly is also one of the worst and most common causes of traffic accidents. People driving under the speed limit can distract other people on the road and cause a general nuisance. When you driving at very low speed, the harder it’s to control your car, particularly when you come across an unforeseen bend or another vehicle swerves without notice. Driving at a slow speed can change the flow of traffic and can hinder vehicles traveling at high speed. If someone is driving too slowly, make sure to avoid them by changing lanes every time possible. If not, be patient and let the person move on before taking matters into their own hands.
Reckless Driving
Driving erratically or randomly is another common reason for accidents. Reckless driving involves not following the rules of the road and can result in loss of control of your car, which can lead to being involved in an accident. Some examples of reckless driving include tailgating, meandering through traffic, making inappropriate or sudden turns or stops without giving advance signal, and speeding. If you see someone driving erratically on the road, make sure to avoid them by giving way if possible for you to do so safely. Slow down and be patient as it may take a while before this person makes a move.
Driving Under the Influence of Drugs/Alcohol
People who get behind the wheel when they’re drunk and under the influence of alcohol or drugs are putting themselves and others on the road in danger. This can be very dangerous because you will not have the ability to think straight, which makes it hard for you to control the car, get to know it danger on the road, and react appropriately when needed. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol puts many lives in danger, including your own. Avoiding driving when you are drunk is a must, even if that means using public transportation, hitching a ride in someone else’s vehicle, or staying the night where you are.
Distracted Driving
Talking on the phone while driving, multitasking, and being distracted by other people in the car are only a few of the most common causes of traffic accidents in Maryland. This is a really major problem these days because most people carry their smartphones wherever they go. Using your mobile phone while you’re behind the wheel can be very distracting, which can easily affect your driver’s concentration and focus. If you must use your mobile phone while driving, make sure to pull over in a safe place before doing so or wait until you get home to handle your calls or messages.
Each of us must do our part to make sure the safety and security of each other on the road. The next time you drive, make sure to follow all the rules and regulations, so that everybody can travel safely. Remember that driving is nothing but an enormous responsibility that requires your full attention at all times.
