Common Causes of Fatal Car Accidents

Car accidents sometimes end in fatalities, and often the occurrence could have been avoided. Most fatal car accidents are caused primarily by driver error or acts of negligence. However, sometimes environmental factors or mechanical problems contribute to these collisions.

This blog discusses common causes of fatal car accidents and ways to prevent them. Understanding how these collisions occur will help avoid them and possibly save more lives. If you lose a loved one to a fatal traffic accident, our attorneys at Terry Bryant Accident & Injury Law can help you seek compensation in a wrongful death claim.

We have successfully represented numerous people whose loved ones died due to a driver’s negligence and are confident we can help you get justice. Our initial consultations are free, during which we will discuss your case facts and your rights under Texas law. Call us now at (713) 973-8888 or toll-free 1 (800) 444-5000.

Why Hire Our Texas Wrongful Death Lawyer to Represent You?

At Terry Bryant Accident & Injury Law, we’ve seen the harm car accidents can cause, especially when people lose someone close to them. While we sympathize with your loss, we take an aggressive approach when dealing with the at-fault driver, their lawyer, and their insurance company. We will do our best to hold the at-fault party accountable and get you fair compensation.

Our wrongful death attorneys have done this since 1985 and know what it takes to maximize compensation. We understand the applicable laws and the Texas legal system, so you can trust us to give you quality representation. Contact us if a driver’s negligence caused a loved one’s death, and we’ll help you determine your eligibility to file a claim and explain what to expect during the claim process.

We’ve gained a strong reputation in the communities we serve, as a trusted and experienced legal team that will work hard to get you the best outcome for your case.

What Are the Common Causes of Fatal Car Accidents?

According to the Texas Department of Transportation, the fatality rate on Texas roadways for 2023 was 1.45 deaths per hundred million vehicle miles traveled, with a total death toll of 4,283. Nationally, the Department of Transportation estimated that 40,990 people died in motor vehicle traffic crashes in 2023. With such high numbers, knowing what causes fatal accidents and taking steps to minimize them is vital.

Below are some of the most common causes of fatal car accidents.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a leading cause of fatal car accidents. A driver is distracted when their eyes or mind is occupied with other activities besides driving. Common examples of distracted driving are texting, talking on the phone, eating, using GPS, or interacting with passengers. These actions divert the driver’s attention from the road and delay reaction times, increasing the likelihood of a collision.

Drunk Driving

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (prescription or recreational) is another leading cause of accidents with fatalities. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly 32% of all traffic-related fatalities in the U.S. involve an impaired driver. Alcohol or drugs impair judgment and slow reaction times and coordination, leading to poor decision-making behind the wheel and increasing the risk of an accident.

Speeding

“Speed kills” is a common warning, but it hasn’t stopped drivers from exceeding the speed limit. Speed is dangerous and often causes fatal crashes because it increases the force of impact. Also, speeding reduces a driver’s ability to react when they encounter sudden hazards or changes in road conditions. It also makes it harder to stop in time to avoid a collision.

Reckless or Aggressive Driving

A driver is reckless or aggressive when they behave erratically on the road. For example, tailgating, weaving through traffic, road rage, and ignoring traffic signals. Reckless or aggressive driving creates unpredictable situations for other drivers, increasing the likelihood of fatal collisions.

We know how to build strong cases for our clients and will gather the evidence to establish the other party’s fault and hold them accountable.

Weather Conditions

When it rains heavily, snows, or there’s high wind or fog, it becomes harder for drivers to see what is in front of them, increasing the risk of fatal collision. Also, water reduces tire traction, making it easier for cars to veer off the road while speeding or if the driver takes a turn too fast.

Fatigue or Drowsy Driving

Research has shown that driving while tired or drowsy is similar to driving under the influence of alcohol. Fatigue or drowsy driving is more common among truck drivers, shift workers, and people with untreated sleep disorders.

In addition to the above, failing to obey traffic rules, vehicle defects, maintenance issues, and poor road conditions can cause a fatal car accident. However, irrespective of what caused the collision, we can help you seek compensation as long as your deceased loved one was not the at-fault driver or had more fault than the other party.

How to Prevent Fatal Car Accidents

Fatal car accidents are preventable if drivers prioritize safety and follow traffic rules. The following are tips on how to prevent fatal auto accidents:

• Focus on the road and avoid texting, eating, or using handheld devices while driving.
• Stick to posted speed limits and adjust your speed for weather or road conditions.
• Don’t drink and drive. Use a designated driver, rideshare service, or public transportation if you plan to consume alcohol or drugs.
• Monitor other drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians to anticipate potential hazards.
• Keep a safe following distance between vehicles. We recommend maintaining a three-second gap between your car and the one ahead to allow for sudden stops.
• Perform regular inspections on your car. Check brakes, tires, lights, and engine regularly to ensure proper functioning. Also, fix issues like worn tires or faulty brakes to prevent mechanical failures.
• Always stop at red lights, yield when required, and follow road markings. Do not tailgate, weave in and out of traffic, or exhibit road rage.
• Reduce speed during rain, snow, fog, or icy conditions, and ensure your car’s windshield wipers, defrosters, and headlights are functioning correctly.

If you do this, you will have taken a step to keep yourself and other road users safe.

We Are the Ones to Call After a Fatal Car Accident

Losing a loved one to a car accident is tough, especially when they are not at fault. However, you can hold the at-fault party accountable through a wrongful death claim. While no amount of money can bring back your loved one, our Terry Bryant Accident & Injury Law team will ensure you get enough compensation to cover the losses caused by their death.

The compensation will also cover funeral and burial expenses, so you won’t have to shoulder them alone. Call us now at (713) 973-8888 for your free case review and to get started on your claim.