Wanderlust World Wanderlust World One of the most common reasons for automobile accidents is drunk driving. According to MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving), someone is killed by a drunk driver every 40 minutes. Most of the people who are involved in drunk-driving accidents are repeat offenders who have been convicted of an alcohol-related crime or have driven while under the influence before. Many people believe that they are not drunk if they have been drinking beers or wine coolers, as opposed to liquor---this is not always true. MADD states that drunk drivers are typically people who consume a large amount of alcohol in a short period of time. Drinking any amount of alcohol can constitute drunk driving, so it is better to have a designated driver or not to drive at all.
Drugs of all types play a significant role in automobile accidents. Many impair judgment, cause drowsiness and reduce visual tracking time. Some can affect motor skills---which are vital to driving safely. Some prescribed drugs, such as anti-depressants, tranquilizers, and blood pressure and allergy medications, can lead to accidents if the warning label directions are not followed properly. Some people find it acceptable to smoke marijuana or use prescription drugs just because a police officer can't "smell it on their breath." If an officer pulls a driver over for suspicion of driving under the influence---she is just as susceptible to being drug tested as a drinker is to being tested with a Breathalyzer. Illegal drugs that impair one's ability and then cause auto accidents---especially fatalities---can bring about hefty penalties to drivers---some may even involve prison time.
With the technological advances of cell phones and text messengers, more and more drivers are talking on the phone while operating motor vehicles. This has proven to be one of the most dangerous trends in driving---especially with teens. Many attempt to multitask by answering phones, dialing and texting while driving at speeds of up to 80 mph. Seconds count in an accident. Many cell phone users have reported looking away from the road for a few seconds only to find that they have drifted into the other lane---or worse---caused a fatal accident. States that ban cell phone use while driving are on the increase, and some major cities have already instituted bans as well. Limiting cell phone use to nondriving situations should be a rule to live by.
One contributing factor to automobile accidents is driver carelessness. This can be caused by several things: age (young and old), inexperience, fear of the road, driving too fast or too slow, tending to children and eating while driving. While everyone is likely to be guilty of doing these things from time to time---all it takes is one incident to cause an accident. For those unsure of their driving abilities, set up an appointment for a driving refresher class until the skills become second nature.
Weather plays a significant role in automobile accidents. Rain can cause hydroplaning, which means the car can slide on standing water and veer off the road or into another lane. Snow and ice can cause driving difficulties, as the wheels can cause the vehicle to slip or slide into oncoming traffic. Wind, in combination with rain, sleet or snow, can reduce visibility levels drastically. Fog can also cause whiteouts and the inability to follow lane lines. The sun can cause blinding effects---especially in the morning and late afternoon. Making sure to check weather conditions before driving can help drivers to make accommodations if weather conditions aren't optimal for driving.