One of the biggest contributors to auto accidents is driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
When it comes to auto accidents there are many factors involved, and no two accidents are the same. However, there are common things that people do when behind the wheel that can increase the risk of an accident. Many car accidents are completely preventable. Knowing what common mistakes automobile drivers make might just save you from being in an accident.
Common Moving Violations
When trying to figure out negligence to ascribe liability, the most common things that will shift fault to a specific driver are things that licensed drivers are typically ticketed for. If you are issued a ticket at the scene, then you are likely to be found at fault. Since Missouri is an at-fault state, if you are ticketed for a moving violation while doing these things, then you will likely be liable for paying for any damages or injuries that are sustained:
- Disobeying traffic signals or signs
- Failing to put your turn signal on before turning
- Driving either well below or way above the posted speed limit
- Disregarding or not compensating for hazardous weather conditions or traffic congestion
- Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
The person that is determined to be negligent of making any of these common mistakes that can lead to an accident, will likely be the one held liable. If a person is found to be driving recklessly or under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they may also face criminal prosecution and fines or jail time.
Reckless Driving
When someone is accused of reckless driving, it means that they are engaging in reckless and intentionally harmful activities. Someone who is driving at excessive speeds or without regard for the safety of pedestrians and other automobiles around them can be found at fault for an accident. Reckless driving is typically described as:
- Excessive speeding by either ignoring signs or disregarding weather or traffic conditions
- Improper lane usage or failure to follow street signs
- Failing to check for oncoming traffic or cars when pulling out or switching lanes
- Improper passing of other cars by either passing over solid lines, going onto the shoulder or crossing the median
Drunk Driving
One of the biggest contributors to automobile accidents is people driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. It is estimated that in America, someone dies every 51 minutes in a crash that is related to drinking and driving. Not only will driving while under the influence make you automatically at fault, but it can also mean that you can be charged with stiff penalties, lose your license, or even be charged with reckless homicide.
St. Louis Auto Accident Lawyer
Although every accident is different and the circumstances leading to them vary, in order to reduce your risk of being in a car accident it is important to know what the most common causes are. That way you can pay attention to the road, obey the laws and never get behind the wheel of a car after drinking alcohol or taking drugs.
If you have been involved in an accident due to the negligence of another driver, contact a The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. today. For 25 years we have been helping car accident victims receive the compensation they need and deserve.
Call us at (314) 361-4242