Driving Behavior That Causes Car Accidents in Alaska
The term “accident” implies that an incident occurs unexpectedly and through no one’s fault. When considering motor vehicle crashes, the underlying factor is commonly driver error rather than chance or coincidence. As part of its mission to provide consumers the details they need to make informed decisions about insurance products, the Insurance Information Institute (III) studies crash data to determine the types of motorist actions that cause accidents. The results of its research, collected from multiple sources, may surprise you.
In the practice of law, driver error or other careless actions may constitute negligence. An Anchorage car accident lawyer can explain what you need to prove and assist you with the legal process for recovering compensation. However, you may be able to avoid serious collisions when you know the top driver actions behind them.
- Speeding: Most motorists know that speeding over the posted limit is both illegal and dangerous. Other factors may increase the risks of a motor vehicle crash, such as driving too fast for conditions that are extremely hazardous, especially in Alaska when weather can create wet, slick surfaces. A less common issue is drag racing, but this type of misconduct is more likely to result in fatal auto accidents.
- Driving Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol: Despite laws and decades of public awareness campaigns about the dangers, there were still 5,175 fatal crashes linked to drunk and drugged driving in 2018. According to III data, DUI comprises 10.1% of all deadly car crashes.
- Improper Lane Changes: The third most common driver action associated with fatal motor vehicle accidents is the failure to stay in the proper lane. Some of these collisions occur because a motorist swerves into another lane traveling in the same direction or fails to use a turn indicator. Erratic lane changes can also lead to wrong way crashes.
- Right-of-Way Violations: Most drivers are aware of right-of-way rules, so you might be surprised by how often they violate basic laws. Careless motorist actions in this category often result in injuries to pedestrians and bicycle riders.
- Distracted Driving: Texting, talking, surfing the internet, and other cell phone use continues to be a problem on US roadways. However, fewer people realize how other forms of distracted driving can be just as dangerous and increase the potential for serious crashes. Eating, drinking, adjusting the radio, using a GPS, and other activities that interfere with the motorist’s attention are also factors. Distracted driving was the cause of 5.2% of fatal collisions in 2018.
Call Now to Speak to an Alaska Auto Crash Attorney
Whether the car accident was caused by these or other negligent acts by the at-fault driver, you may qualify for monetary damages for your losses. The key to obtaining the compensation you deserve is retaining a skilled lawyer, so please contact Power & Power Law in Anchorage, Alaska to learn about your legal remedies. We can schedule a free consultation to learn more about your circumstances.