The Top Five Causes of Connecticut Car Crashes
Every year, numerous Connecticut residents find their lives upended due to car crashes. A simple drive to the store or a daily commute can suddenly become a life-changing event, resulting in serious injuries and potentially permanent disabilities.
Many factors can lead to car accidents, often involving driver negligence. Below are some of the most common causes of motor vehicle collisions in Connecticut.
Failing to Yield the Right of Way
One of the primary causes of accidents in Connecticut is drivers failing to yield the right of way. Whether at an intersection, a pedestrian crosswalk, or while making a turn, neglecting this basic traffic rule can lead to severe collisions. This lapse often results from inattention or misjudging the speed of oncoming vehicles, causing potentially catastrophic consequences for all involved.
Following Too Closely
In many situations, drivers can follow the car in front of them too closely, a practice commonly known as tailgating. This dangerous behavior does not allow the trailing driver sufficient time or distance to react if the lead car suddenly brakes or stops. These circumstances can result in rear-end collisions, which, while sometimes seeming minor, can lead to significant injuries like whiplash.
Merging without Checking the Next Lane
On highways or multi-lane roads, accidents often occur when drivers merge without adequately checking their blind spots. This oversight can lead to sideswipe accidents or cause other drivers to swerve and lose control. Properly adjusting and using mirrors can help mitigate such risks and avoid potentially dangerous collisions.
Driving Over the Speed Limit
Speeding is a leading cause of accidents not only in Connecticut but across the country. Driving over the speed limit significantly reduces a driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of crashes. It’s vital for drivers to adhere to posted speed limits and slow down when they encounter adverse weather conditions or heavy traffic. These actions could potentially save lives.
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs
Despite years of public awareness campaigns, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs remains a serious issue. Such substances severely impair judgment, reaction times, and motor skills. These impaired drivers pose a significant risk to themselves, their passengers, and everyone else on the road.
Contact a Connecticut Car Accident Attorney Today
If you were involved in a car accident in Connecticut, navigating the aftermath can be both physically and emotionally traumatic. Beyond the immediate medical concerns, there’s the matter of insurance claims, potential legal actions, and understanding your rights. Handling these complexities alone can be daunting. It is in these moments that the expertise of a New Haven car accident attorney proves invaluable.
A lawyer who specializes in these claims can streamline the legal process, negotiate on your behalf with insurance companies, and craft a compelling case in your favor. With an attorney on your side, you gain an advocate who will protect your rights and fight for your best interests during every stage of the case.
After your accident, seek medical attention as soon as possible to treat any injuries that you may have. Then, schedule a free legal consultation with a New Haven car accident lawyer to discuss your legal options and plan your path forward.