Whether traveling along city streets, county roads or highways, motor vehicle collisions can result in devastating injuries. Depending on the types of vehicles involved and the speeds at which they were traveling, occupants might suffer broken bones, head injuries, spinal cord damage or paralysis. Even though every driver understands the dangers involved, they still partake in activities that could lead to serious collisions.
What are three of the most common categories that can lead to a motor vehicle collision?
- Distracted driving: Whether they are eating dinner on the drive home after a long shift at work, or personal grooming on the way to an early class, drivers can quickly become distracted by attempting to multitask while behind the wheel. Any action that takes the eyes off the road or hands off the steering wheel can lead to a serious collision as the driver’s focus has been pulled away from their primary task.
- Drowsy driving: Drivers must be alert and aware of their surroundings including the weather conditions, traffic patterns and other drivers. Unfortunately, some drivers get behind the wheel when they are fatigued, leading to lapses in concentration. It might be an early morning drive, a bout of insomnia or prescription medication that causes fatigue, but drowsy drivers should seek other options rather than attempting to drive themselves. From ridesharing apps to calling a friend for a ride, drivers need to be aware of the lack of their own alertness.
- Impaired driving: While this phrase historically had been used to refer to drunk drivers, the impairment can come from drugs, prescription medication or strong over the counter meds. These substances can all impact a driver’s senses to some degree. From blurred vision and trouble concentrating to slowed reaction times and cognitive challenges, strong chemical interactions can make a driver unsafe to be around.
These types of activities pull a driver’s focus from the road or simply make a driver less able to identify and avoid road hazards. If you were injured in an accident caused by a negligent or impaired driver, it is wise to discuss your case with an experienced personal injury attorney to learn more about your options for monetary compensation.