Common Causes of Auto Accidents and How to Avoid Them

Every year, thousands of car accidents occur on Tennessee roads, from busy interstates to winding rural highways. Because some of these crashes are preventable, understanding the root causes can help drivers make safer choices behind the wheel.

In Nashville and across the state, a mix of well-known and lesser-known risk factors contribute to serious collisions. By staying informed and alert, drivers can reduce their chances of being involved in a life-altering accident. And if the worst does happen, you don’t have to face it alone, legal help is available when you connect with a Nashville personal injury lawyer.

 Persistent Threats and Underappreciated Dangers

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of auto accidents. Whether it’s texting, using a GPS, eating, or even adjusting the radio, taking your eyes off the road for even a few seconds can lead to disaster. Tennessee has one of the highest rates of distracted driving deaths in the country, making it critical for drivers to put down their phones and stay focused at all times.

Another frequent contributor to crashes is speeding. Exceeding the posted limit or driving too fast for road conditions reduces reaction time and increases the severity of impact during a collision. Speeding is particularly dangerous in poor weather or heavy traffic, both of which are common in and around Nashville. Slowing down not only helps avoid accidents but also gives drivers more control when unexpected hazards appear.

Also, some causes of accidents don’t get as much attention but are just as dangerous. Drowsy driving, for example, mimics the effects of driving under the influence. Fatigue can cause lapses in judgment, slow reaction times, and even microsleep episodes where drivers nod off without realizing it.

Familiar roads can also pose a hidden risk. When drivers are overly comfortable with a route, such as a daily commute, they may pay less attention, assuming they know what to expect. This complacency can lead to missed traffic signals, overlooked pedestrians, or rear-end collisions in stop-and-go traffic.

 Safety Tips for Tennessee Drivers

Even the most cautious drivers can be involved in accidents due to another’s negligence, but there are things drivers can do to stay as safe as possible.

• Eliminate distractions. Use hands-free devices and set up navigation before you begin driving.
• Observe speed limits. Adjust your speed according to traffic, weather, and road conditions.
• Get enough rest. Avoid driving when tired, especially on long trips or late at night.
• Stay engaged. Don’t let routine routes cause you to tune out. Stay alert at all times.
• Keep a safe distance. Tailgating reduces your ability to stop in time during emergencies.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a Tennessee crash, it’s important to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible. An experienced Nashville personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights, deal with insurance companies, and pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Are you recovering from a traffic injury? Connect with the injury lawyers at Calhoun Law, PLC. Lean on our expertise. Reach out today for a confidential consultation.