When it comes to car accidents, many are the result of human error. Even experienced drivers can make mistakes that lead to serious accidents. Understanding the common errors that cause crashes can help drivers improve their habits and enhance safety on the road. Below are some of the most frequent driver errors and tips on how to avoid them.
1. Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents today. Whether it’s texting, talking on the phone, adjusting the radio, eating, or interacting with passengers, any activity that takes a driver’s attention away from the road is dangerous. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in the U.S. alone, distracted driving claimed 3,142 lives in 2020.
How to Avoid It: The best way to avoid distracted driving is to keep your focus solely on driving. Put your phone on silent or use a hands-free system if absolutely necessary. Try to minimize distractions by setting up your navigation system, playlist, and other needs before hitting the road. If you must make a call, eat, or tend to something, pull over safely to do so.
2. Speeding
Speeding significantly increases the likelihood and severity of a crash. Many drivers exceed the speed limit because they’re running late or feel they can handle driving faster. However, higher speeds reduce the time a driver has to react to sudden changes in road conditions, traffic, or hazards. According to experienced car accident lawyers in Atlanta, speeding also makes it harder to control the vehicle, particularly in curves or on wet and slippery roads.
How to Avoid It: Stay within posted speed limits and adjust your speed based on traffic, road, and weather conditions. Always allow extra time to reach your destination so that you don’t feel pressured to speed.
3. Following Too Closely (Tailgating)
Following too closely, or tailgating, is a common driver error that often leads to rear-end collisions. Drivers who tailgate don’t allow enough space to react if the vehicle in front suddenly stops or slows down. This error is particularly dangerous in high-speed environments like highways, where reaction times need to be quicker.
How to Avoid It: A good rule of thumb is to follow the “three-second rule”: leave at least three seconds of space between your car and the vehicle in front of you. In bad weather or at higher speeds, increase this distance to five or more seconds.
4. Improper Lane Changes
Improper lane changes—such as failing to signal, cutting off other drivers, or switching lanes without checking blind spots—are a frequent cause of crashes. These maneuvers can catch other drivers off guard and lead to sideswipe collisions or accidents caused by sudden braking.
How to Avoid It: Before changing lanes, always check your mirrors and blind spots, and use your turn signal to communicate your intentions to other drivers. Be patient and only change lanes when there’s a clear and safe opportunity.
5. Running Red Lights or Stop Signs
Running red lights or stop signs is not only illegal but also one of the most dangerous driving errors. These violations often lead to side-impact or “T-bone” collisions, which can be deadly due to the lack of protection on the sides of most vehicles.
How to Avoid It: Always come to a complete stop at red lights and stop signs, and take the time to look for oncoming traffic before proceeding. If the light turns yellow as you approach, slow down and prepare to stop, rather than speeding up to beat the red light.
6. Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs continues to be a major cause of car crashes. Impaired drivers have slower reaction times, poor judgment, and decreased coordination, all of which make it more likely for them to be involved in an accident.
How to Avoid It: Never drive if you’ve been drinking alcohol or using substances that impair your ability to drive. Plan ahead by designating a sober driver, using a rideshare service, or staying overnight if necessary.
7. Fatigue
Drowsy driving is another dangerous error that can lead to accidents. Drivers who are overly tired have impaired reflexes and may even fall asleep at the wheel. According to the NHTSA, drowsy driving is responsible for thousands of crashes each year.
How to Avoid It: Make sure to get enough rest before long trips and take breaks every couple of hours to stay alert. If you feel too tired to drive, pull over in a safe area and rest. Avoid driving late at night or during times when you would normally be sleeping.
8. Ignoring Road Conditions
Many drivers fail to adjust their driving for different road conditions, such as rain, snow, fog, or construction zones. This can result in loss of control, skidding, or hydroplaning, particularly when drivers continue to travel at high speeds.
How to Avoid It: Always adjust your speed and driving style based on the road conditions. Slow down on wet or icy roads, keep a greater distance from other vehicles, and be cautious around construction zones or areas with limited visibility.
Conclusion
Driver errors are responsible for a large number of accidents on the road. However, most of these mistakes are preventable. By practicing defensive driving, staying focused, and obeying traffic laws, drivers can significantly reduce their risk of being involved in a crash. Awareness and caution are key to staying safe and ensuring the safety of others on the road.
By taking the time to develop good driving habits and avoiding these common errors, drivers can contribute to safer roads and fewer accidents.