Being Aware Can Avoid Major Car and Truck Accidents

Turning 16 years old is a milestone for so many across the country, as they can begin to legally drive themselves without having to rely on others. This newfound sense of freedom is the beginning of an era, but that freedom comes with responsibility. So many people, regardless of age, seem to forget just how dangerous vehicles can be when the wrong, careless person is behind the wheel.

Vehicles are, after all, heavy machines capable of high speeds, on the road with countless other machines and there are often other factors present as well, such as weather or construction areas. Safer roads begin with being responsible behind the wheel every single time.

Steps to take after experiencing a car accident
Sadly, there are plenty of accidents that do occur that could have easily been prevented. From careless or distracted drivers to drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs, there are far too many instances of accidents being the sole responsibility of someone who simply was not driving well. In other cases, due to weather or unforeseen circumstances, an accident is unavoidable. Whatever the case may be, it is important to get in touch with the right people who will be able to help you. Of course, the immediate steps to take would be to make sure everyone is alright, and to get to the hospital for treatment and recovery if there are significant injuries.

As the dust begins to settle, you are likely going to want to have legal counsel. Personal injury lawyers can help you make sense of a very difficult situation. If there were serious injuries or deaths that occurred in the accident, the shock and grieving that you are feeling can make it hard to sort through the process of protecting your rights. Getting in touch with the right law firm can help to alleviate some of that stress.

The many factors that contribute to motor vehicle accidents
With the high number of vehicles on the road, there are unfortunately multiple accidents that occur each and every day throughout the country. There are numerous fender benders and minor crashes that do not result in any type of injury, but with massive, high speed machines it is no surprise that an accident could end up turning into a personal injury settlement. From motorcycles to truck accidents, we are still have quite a bit of work to do before crashes are completely eradicated. This is due in no small part to the actions of drivers who have shirked some basic responsibilities.

Common issues for drivers
• Driving under the influence
  Drunk driving continues to be an issue, and it will be as long as alcoholism is an issue. Society has not been kind to those with addictions or mental illnesses, so it is no surprise that problems with alcohol and other substances are still so prevalent. Over the course of one year, around 1.1 million drivers were brought in for driving while under the influence of alcohol or narcotics. These other substances, apart from alcohol, play a part in about 16% of car crashes.
• Portable devices
  As technology has further developed and advanced, cell phones and other devices have become a major distraction for drivers, though recently there has been a slight decline in the use of these electronics. People are becoming more and more aware of the dangers of texting while driving, and many people will not even take calls while they are behind the wheel. There is still a lot of progress to be made in this particular area, but that small decline is a good sign of improvements to come.
• Lack of general awareness
  Yes, there are many factors that come into play that can result in motorcycle, car, or truck accidents. But one of the biggest factors is what could be identified simply as laziness. People get too comfortable behind the wheel, forgetting about the risks. Take for example, most cases of semi truck accidents. Most of the time, other drivers, in regular sized vehicles, do not take into consideration the mechanics behind operating such a massive vehicle, and end up causing the truck accidents.

There are many things to think about when you are on the road. But being present and aware can save lives.