Why Do People Crash in California?
There are many reasons why people crash their cars in California. However, some of the most common causes of car accidents include:
- Speeding. Speeding is another frequent cause of car accidents, as it increases the risk of losing control of the vehicle and crashing. When you drive over the limit, you have less time to react to hazards on the road, which impairs your ability to avoid an accident.
- Distracted driving. With the increasing use of mobile technology and other communication devices, distracted driving has quickly increased in prevalence as a leading cause of car accidents. When drivers spend time taking their eyes off the road, even for a few seconds, it can lead to a crash.
- Driving under the influence. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is never a good idea, and it’s one of the leading causes of car accidents in California. If you’re going to be drinking, make sure to designate a sober driver ahead of time. When someone is driving under the influence, their reaction time is slowed and they are more likely to engage in poor decisions that can lead to an accident.
- Human error. Human error is another leading cause of car accidents. This can include anything from driving while fatigued to simply not paying attention to the road. We’re all human, and we all make mistakes. However, when we’re behind the wheel of a car, those mistakes can have serious consequences.
- Vehicle malfunctions. Although not as common, vehicle malfunctions can also lead to car accidents. This can include anything from a blown tire to a faulty brake light. If you’re having trouble with your vehicle, make sure to get it checked out by a professional before hitting the road, as something as small as a faulty brake light can lead to a serious accident.
FAQs
Q: What should I do if I’m involved in an auto accident?
A: If you’re involved in an accident, you should first pull over to a safe location and call the police. Once the police arrive, they will spend time investigating the accident and file a formal report. This report can be used to help determine who is at fault for the accident. If you’re not at fault, you may be able to file a claim with the other driver’s insurance company to cover the cost of damages.
Q: What are the most common causes of auto accidents?
A: The most common causes of auto accidents include speeding, distracted driving, driving under the influence, human error, and vehicle malfunctions. Focused prevention tactics are key to reducing the number of accidents on California roads from year to year.
Q: What can I be compensated for?
A: If you’re not at fault for the accident, you may be able to receive compensation for damages, including your medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. An experienced car accident attorney will uncover all available compensation sources to ensure you’re fully funded for your losses.
Q: When should I call a lawyer?
A: You should call a lawyer as soon as possible after an accident. An attorney can help you navigate the claims process, protect your rights, and ensure that you receive the full compensation you’re entitled to. The risk of an insurance company taking advantage of you is much higher if you don’t have an attorney on your side, and self-representing is almost always a guaranteed way to receive less money than you deserve.
Q: Can I file a claim if I’m partially at fault for the accident?
A: Yes, you can still file a claim even if you’re partially at fault for the accident. However, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re deemed 20% at fault for the accident, you would only be eligible to receive 80% of the total compensation. Therefore, it’s important to have an experienced attorney on your side to help you maximize your compensation.