Are You Guilty of These 3 Negligent Driving Behaviors? Omaha Accident Lawyer Insights
Lane departure warnings, backup cameras, crash-avoidance systems – the latest safety features have one factor in common: They reduce the likelihood of accidents due to driver mistakes. These innovations couldn’t have come at a better time considering that nearly 94 percent of auto accidents stem from human errors.
This may seem like a tragic statistic, but there’s a silver lining: All of these collisions are avoidable. You can significantly reduce your likelihood of crashing by avoiding negligent behaviors behind the wheel. Common examples include:
- Distracted driving;
- Drunk driving;
- And speeding.
Unfortunately, even the safest drivers can suffer injuries due to the negligence of other motorists. If you were in a crash that another person caused, contact Rensch & Rensch Law.
An accident attorney in Omaha will help you fight for the maximum settlement. You may be entitled to compensation for health-care expenses, time off work and other damages.
Call 1-800-471-4100 to schedule a consultation. Until then, read on to learn the dangers of three negligent driving behaviors:
- Distracted Driving
According to Distraction.gov, 3,179 people lost their lives in 2014 because of distracted driving. Common examples include:
- Looking at distractions outside the vehicle;
- Texting;
- Smoking;
- Drinking and eating;
- And adjusting climate or audio controls.
There are three types of distractions: visual, physical and mental. The most dangerous distractions, such as texting, fall into all three categories.
These tips may help you prevent distracted driving collisions:
- Do not carry passengers if you are an inexperienced driver;
- Put your cell phone in the glove box or switch it off before starting the car;
- Never smoke, drink or eat while driving;
- And ask a passenger to change the music or climate for you.
You should also avoid motorists who show the following signs of distracted driving:
- Unusual acceleration and braking patterns;
- Swerving;
- Looking down;
- And driving too slowly.
- Drunk Driving
According to Mothers Against Drunk Driving, intoxicated motorists were involved in at least 16 percent of fatal crashes during the week, and 29 percent of deadly accidents over the weekend, in 2014. You should never drive after consuming alcohol or taking certain medications. Also, keep your distance from motorists who show these signs of intoxication:
- Failing to signal a turn or using the wrong signal;
- Stopping far before or after a stop line;
- Swerving;
- Almost hitting an object in the road;
- Or travelling significantly slower or faster than the speed limit.
- Speeding
Speeding reduces the amount of time you have to react to a sudden hazard, such as a car running a red light. Also, a crash at a high speed is more likely to cause injuries or death than a slow-speed accident. According to the NHTSA, speeding was responsible for 30 percent of all road fatalities in 2012.
If you were injured or lost a loved one due to a negligent driver in Nebraska, contact Rensch & Rensch Law. An Omaha accident lawyer can investigate your crash, gather evidence, interview witnesses, structure your claim and help you pursue the highest possible settlement. Call 1-800-471-4100 to schedule a consultation.
