There are thousands of car accidents in Louisiana every year, resulting in hundreds of fatalities. In 2021, for example, 997 people were killed as a result of car accidents across the state, a rise of more than 150 from the previous year.
Injuries sustained in car accidents are often life-changing, affecting a person’s ability to work and their overall quality of life. In the case of fatalities, loved ones may never come to terms with the loss of someone in such a tragic manner.
In this blog post, we will highlight four of the most common causes of car accidents in Lake Charles, LA. These include drunk driving, distracted driving, speeding, and driving while fatigued. Let’s get started.
1. Drunk Driving
Undoubtedly, one of the most reckless acts a person can do is to sit behind a steering wheel while intoxicated. Drinking and driving increases the risk of accidents to due slowed reaction times, less concentration, impaired motor skills, poor judgment, and decreased vision.
In Louisiana, it is against the law to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content of .08% or greater. It is also forbidden to drive while under the influence of any controlled substance.
2. Distracted Driving
Distracted driving refers to any activity that diverts a driver’s attention away from driving. For example, this includes texting or talking on your phone, eating or drinking, talking to people in the vehicle, or fiddling with your vehicle’s navigation or entertainment system.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, reading or sending a text results in a driver taking their eyes off the road for five seconds. If the vehicle is traveling at 55 mph, this is like driving the entire length of a football field with your eyes closed.
3. Speeding
Speeding is a common cause of car accidents in Lake Charles, LA and across the country. There are many consequences of speeding while driving, including:
- Greater potential for loss of vehicle control
- Increased stopping distance
- Reduced effectiveness of vehicle’s occupant protection equipment
- Increased degree of crash severity
Remember, it is better to arrive at a destination a few minutes later than to not arrive at all.
4. Driving While Fatigued
Driver fatigue is another major cause of car accidents. It described drivers who use a motor vehicle on a road while tired or drowsy, which impacts their ability to drive safely and follow the rules of the road.
Drivers who are tired tend to have reduced awareness, slower reaction times, and reduced ability to control their vehicles. Signs of fatigue while driving include drifting in the lane, constant yawning, trouble keeping eyes open, and difficulty remembering the last few miles.
Causes of Car Accidents in Lake Charles, LA
Some other common causes of car accidents include reckless driving (road rage), poor weather, road hazards, running stop signs/red lights, and making improper turns.
If you have sustained an injury as a result of a car accident, you should speak to a car accident attorney about getting justice and compensation. In Lake Charles, LA, your premier choice is Wright & Gray Law Firm. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn more about filing a car accident claim.