What Are the Main Causes of Car Accidents in Wilmington, North Carolina?

There are countless factors that can lead to a vehicle collision in Wilmington, North Carolina and elsewhere. Often, a perfect storm of factors will combine and result in a crash. Human error in the form of negligent or reckless driving is often a key factor.

Understanding how accidents happen can help shed light on the causes of your collision and help prevent future crashes from happening. If you were injured in a Wilmington auto accident, the right legal counsel can help you pursue justice.

Some of the common factors in accident cases our firm handles include:

Speeding

One of the most common causes of motor vehicle accidents in Wilmington occurs when motorists drive too fast for conditions. Speeding is dangerous for a number of reasons, but primarily because it limits a driver’s ability to stop their vehicle in time to avoid a crash. While speeding is risky at any time, it is especially likely to result in a crash during inclement  weather. Slick roads increase the amount of time it takes to bring a vehicle to a halt, which increases the odds of a crash.

Impaired Driving

Controlled substances like drugs or alcohol impact a driver’s ability to safely operate their vehicle. These substances reduce driver reaction time, making it less likely that they will be able to avoid a collision due to changing road conditions. Impaired driving increases the chance of risk-taking, and it also impacts motor skills in a way that could cause a driver to lose control of their vehicle.

Impaired drivers are often under the influence of alcohol. However, some drivers cause collisions because of other controlled substances in their system. This could include anything from illegal narcotics to prescription painkillers. It is especially dangerous when motorists mix these drugs with alcohol.

Distracted Driving

The risks associated with distracted driving are very similar to those attached to impaired driving. When a driver’s attention is elsewhere, they could miss the warning signs of a potential road hazard. Distracted drivers are also more likely to cause a crash because they are unable to avoid a collision.

There are three types of distractions that could increase the chances of a collision:

1. Physical distractions involve things that require the use of your hands, like grooming or changing the radio dial.
2. Visual distractions draw your eyesight away from the roadway, like reading an e-mail on your phone.
3. Mental distractions pull your attention from driving. This could include anything from daydreaming to having a discussion with a passenger.

Severe Weather

Weather frequently plays a part in vehicle accidents. Heavy rain can make the roadways slick, increasing the chances of a crash. Thick fog can make it difficult to see other motorists or even the road itself. Snow and ice increase the chances of losing control of your vehicle and sliding off the roadway.

Vehicle Defects

Although driver error is the most likely cause of most collisions, it is possible for an accident to occur despite the lack of any human error. In some cases, defective cars or car parts are to blame. These defects could result in an accident despite a motorist’s best efforts to avoid a collision.

Vehicle defects are not all the same. Some accidents occur when a defect makes it impossible to navigate with a vehicle or bring it to a complete stop. This could include issues with steering or braking systems.

Other defects that might cause an accident could include issues with headlights or the tires.

Talk to an attorney about your car accident

If you were injured in a Wilmington car accident, contact the Rhine Law Firm to see how we can help. Our experienced attorneys understand what it takes to maximize financial compensation in a personal injury lawsuit. Our aggressive approach to securing fair compensation on your behalf could help you get the outcome you deserve.

Do not attempt to represent yourself in a personal injury case. Let our Wilmington personal injury attorneys advocate on your behalf. Reach out as soon as possible to schedule your free consultation.