For most of us, the most dangerous thing we do each day is get in our cars and drive to work, school or some other destination. No matter how good a driver you are, or how careful you are to obey traffic laws, there is always a danger that another driver will do something unpredictable to cause an accident.
Being aware of common causes of accidents can help you drive more defensively, to reduce your risk of becoming an accident victim. Some common causes of automobile accidents include:
- Distracted driving: With the ubiquitous use of cell phones and texting, many drivers zone out in traffic while using their devices. Other distracting activities include eating, reading, grooming and interacting with children or pets while driving. Be aware of drivers going too slow, driving at varying speeds, crossing over the lane line and other erratic behavior.
- Drugs and alcohol: Driving under the influence, whether from alcohol or prescription pharmaceuticals, is deadly. Steer clear of drivers who appear to not be paying attention, or who do not seem in control of their vehicle.
- Speeding and aggressive driving: Drivers in a hurry will ride your bumper, weave between lanes and cut off other drivers to get ahead of traffic. As much as possible, get out of their way and avoid confrontational behavior. Road rage can be very deadly, and is not worth engaging in.
- Rain and snow: Reduced visibility coupled with slippery roads and increased stopping distance can be a recipe for disaster. Some drivers don’t know when to slow down in bad weather, and they are unable to stop in time to avoid a collision.
- Traffic violations: Running red lights, failing to yield, and other traffic violations can cause accidents. Traffic laws were established for the safety of all, to avoid collisions and other accidents.
- Night driving: Visibility is reduced at night, and some drivers have impaired night vision. Even with less traffic on the road, more accidents happen at night. Keep your windows clean, put more distance between your vehicle and the one ahead of you, and be extra cautious at night.
- Tailgating: Some drivers seem to have no concept of what constitutes a safe driving distance. Aggressive drivers often tailgate to get you to change lanes or speed up, and distracted drivers tailgate without being conscious of doing so. Leave plenty of room between your vehicle and the one in front of you, and get out of the way of tailgaters to avoid an accident.
- Inexperienced drivers: Driving is a skill that gets better with experience. New drivers, or those who do not drive very often can make mistakes in judgement that cause accidents.
- Older drivers: Senior citizens sometimes have impaired reaction time, and they often drive too slowly, forcing traffic to go around them. They may also make deadly mistakes, like hitting the gas when they mean to step on the brakes.
- Cyclists and pedestrians: Some drivers do not know how to share the road, and they fail to make room for bicycles, runners and other non-motorized conveyances. Keep a lookout for pedestrians, and respect their right of way.
Help for Auto Accident Victims
No matter how careful you are, you may become the victim of an accident through the reckless behavior of another driver. In such cases, you are entitled to compensation for damages, injuries and other serious consequences of an automobile accident. A qualified personal injury attorney can help you get maximum compensation for your injuries, pain, suffering and financial damages.
However, negotiating a settlement from insurance companies takes time. Meanwhile, you are stuck with mounting bills, medical expenses and the consequences of injury. A settlement loan from Cronus can help you meet your expenses while your case settles. If for some reason you do not win your case, you will not have to repay your loan. If you do win, repayment will come directly from your settlement amount.
If you have been the victim of an auto accident, contact Cronus today and let us help you through the quick and easy process of obtaining a low rate auto accident loan.
