Human error is one of the common causes of car accidents in Bloomfield. Whether talking on a cell phone or exceeding the speed limit, motorists who fail to obey traffic laws may be found negligent and responsible for damages, even in no-fault states like New Jersey. Understanding the causes of car accidents can help drivers avoid making errors that result in accidents.
If you were injured in a car accident that was not your fault, schedule a free consultation with one of our dedicated car accident attorneys.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is the leading cause of car accidents in Bloomfield. Any activity that takes a driver’s attention away from operating a vehicle, such as texting, eating, adjusting the radio, or speaking with passengers, qualifies as a distraction. Due to their frequent use behind the wheel, cell phones fall under a specific category of distracted driving addressed by dedicated laws.
Driving distractions fall into three categories: physical, cognitive, and visual. Cell phone use engages all three, which increases the risk of a crash. For example, a driver reading a text message while holding a phone removes their eyes from the road, takes one hand off the wheel, and shifts mental focus away from driving.
Driving While Intoxicated (DWI)
Alcohol slows reaction times and impairs judgment. When driving under the influence, motorists are violating traffic laws that prohibit vehicle operation if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) exceeds 0.08%. Drivers in Bloomfield may fail to stop, exceed speed limits, or lose control of their vehicle while driving with a BAC greater than 0.08%.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
Although most people associate illegal drugs with DUIs, prescription drugs are often the cause of citations and another cause of car crashes in Bloomfield. People react to medications differently, and their effects vary based on dosage and frequency. Having prescribed medicines in your system does not automatically mean impairment. However, using illegal drugs while driving will result in a DUI, if not an accident.
Speeding
Speeding may seem like a minor traffic violation, but it increases the likelihood of serious injury. Going faster than weather or road conditions allow can make it harder for drivers to stop or control their cars on slippery or uneven surfaces. High-speed collisions cause more damage and injuries because the impact force is greater.
Driver Fatigue
Tired drivers are slow to respond or recognize hazardous situations. It’s easy to drive home after work without considering how fatigue impacts driving behavior. Commercial truck drivers are limited to 11 hours of driving after a ten-hour break to prevent potential accidents due to fatigue. The average motorist should avoid driving when tired.
Traffic Law Violations
Traffic rules and regulations help keep roadways safe. When drivers in Bloomfield ignore these laws, they increase the chance of an accident. Failing to yield right-of-way or running stop signs endangers other motorists and their passengers. Improper lane changes on high-speed roads can be catastrophic. Road rage can lead to aggressive driving and unintended accidents.
Consult a Lawyer if Someone Caused Your Car Accident in Bloomfield
Car accidents are stressful, even when they are only fender benders. There are repairs to schedule and follow-up medical appointments to attend. If the accident is catastrophic, adjustments may be necessary to accommodate lifestyle changes. Receiving compensation from an at-fault driver can be challenging. Skilled car accident lawyers could help accident victims navigate the system to pursue compensation.
Being aware of the common causes of car accidents in Bloomfield enables drivers to avoid behaviors that can lead to property damage and injuries. But accidents still happen.
If you were involved in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence. Contact us to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.
