Common Causes of Auto Accidents You Need to be Aware Of

Auto accidents have various forms and can happen anywhere, anytime. In the United States alone, 2.35 million suffer from a varying range of injuries and disabilities because of car accidents. Additionally, more than 37,000 Americans die every year due to a vehicular crash.

At Lifeguard Urgent Care Spring Hill walk-in clinic, we have experience dealing with patients who have sustained non life-threatening injuries following an auto accident. Aside from physical injuries, patients also suffer from the psychological trauma.

According to our auto injury doctor in Spring Hill, the most common causes of auto accidents are: speeding, distracted driving, drunk driving, running red lights, and improper turning.

Speeding

Speeding is the highest contributing factor in vehicular accidents. Most life-threatening crashes occur due to driving over the speed limit as the force of impact is greater during a high-speed crash. The faster the vehicle, the bigger its chances of getting involved in a car accident. Take note that you are sharing the road with other drivers. Moreover, the faster you drive, the longer the braking distance that you’d need to bring your vehicle to a complete stop.

Distracted driving

When you’re behind the wheel, it is important to keep your eyes on the road. In the past couple of years, distracted driving has increasingly become a bigger threat, especially for long distance journeys. Doing other things, such as answering a phone call, texting, eating, and even looking at the GPS can divide your attention and blunten your focus.

Drunk driving

Driving under the influence of alcohol is dangerous. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 10,497 people died because of alcohol impaired driving in 2016. This contributes to 28% of traffic-related mortality in the United States.

Alcohol is a depressant, which means that it can reduce your reaction, decrease your concentration, and slow down your brain function. It can also affect your vision, balance, and perception of speed. People who are intoxicated can suddenly become fearless and engage in risky activities.

Running red lights

Although you are running late for an important meeting, beating the red light is never a good idea to save time. Red simply means stop. Unfortunately, some people speed up when the yellow light comes on, instead of slowing down. Aside from breaking the law, running a red light can lead to serious vehicular crashes.

Improper turning

Improper turning may be caused by a lapse in judgement, or unfamiliarity to the place. However, it can cause serious accidents. Never forget to use your indicators before turning and changing lanes to warn other drivers and avoid confusion. Follow traffic signs and beware of one-way streets. Always observe the right-of-way when on the road.

Prevent an Auto Accident

Overall, the safety of everyone on the road is a shared responsibility. In order to decrease the number of fatal accidents, we need to build safer roads and infrastructures equipped with adequate lighting and clear traffic signs. Likewise, the general public also has the responsibility to obey traffic rules and regulations, and take precautionary measures when behind the wheel. Being irresponsible will not only endanger your life, but also the lives of others. Wearing appropriate protective equipment, such as a helmet or seatbelts, can save your life and reduce the severity of injury in case of an auto accident.

Learn more about Lifeguard Urgent Care – auto injury doctor, Spring Hill

Seeking medical treatment at Lifeguard Urgent Care Spring Hill walk-in clinic is recommended if the condition of the injured person is not life-threatening. At Lifeguard, your waiting time is minimized compared to ER rooms. Consultation and treatment are guaranteed to be affordable and efficient, as we are equipped with diagnostic facilities and friendly staff. For inquiries, call us at (352) 515-6000.

The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.