The Top 5 Causes of Car Accidents in Brooklyn You Need to Know About

Every year, countless car accidents occur in Brooklyn, many of which could have been prevented. Understanding the top causes of car accidents can help drivers take steps to avoid them and stay safe on the road.

In this blog post, we will discuss the top five causes of car accidents in Brooklyn that you need to know about. From distracted driving to poor weather conditions, we will explore each cause in detail and provide tips for avoiding them.

By the end of this post, you will better understand the risks on the road and how to protect yourself and others from car accidents in Brooklyn.

Contact the Brooklyn car accident lawyers at Held, Held & Held to get started on your car accident claim.

1. Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents in Brooklyn. This type of driving occurs when a driver’s attention is diverted from the road to a secondary activity, such as texting or talking on the phone. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that distracted driving took 2,841 lives in 2018.

There are many different types of distracted driving, including visual, manual, and cognitive distractions. Visual distractions are when a driver takes their eyes off the road, such as looking at a GPS device. Manual distractions occur when a driver takes their hands off the wheel, such as eating or adjusting the radio. Cognitive distractions occur when a driver’s mind is not focused on driving, such as daydreaming.

To avoid distracted driving, stay focused on the road at all times. This means avoiding activities that can take your attention away from driving. If you need to make a phone call or send a text message, pull over to a safe location first.

2. Speeding

Speeding is another common cause of car accidents in Brooklyn. Speeding occurs when a driver exceeds the posted speed limit or drives too fast for road conditions. According to the NHTSA, speeding was a factor in 9,378 fatalities in 2018.

There are many reasons why drivers may choose to speed, such as running late or feeling rushed. However, the dangers of speeding cannot be overstated. Driving at high speeds reduces a driver’s ability to react to hazards and increases the likelihood of a serious accident.

To avoid speeding, obey posted speed limits and adjust your driving speed to match road conditions. For example, if you are driving in heavy rain or snow, you should slow down to reduce the risk of hydroplaning or skidding.

3. Reckless Driving

Reckless driving is a dangerous behavior that puts everyone on the road at risk. Reckless driving occurs when a driver operates a vehicle in a way that demonstrates a disregard for the safety of others. Examples of reckless driving include running red lights, weaving in and out of traffic, and passing on the shoulder.

To avoid reckless driving, it is important to remain calm and patient while on the road. Avoid engaging with aggressive drivers or attempting to retaliate in any way. If you encounter a driver who is exhibiting reckless behavior, it is important to report them to the authorities.

4. Drunk Driving

Drunk driving is a serious problem in Brooklyn and across the United States. Drunk driving occurs when a driver operates a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. According to the NHTSA, 10,511 people died in alcohol-impaired crashes in 2018.

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and extremely dangerous. Alcohol and drugs impair a driver’s judgment, coordination, and reaction time, making it difficult to operate a vehicle safely. Even small amounts of alcohol can significantly increase the risk of a car accident.

To avoid drunk driving, it is important to never get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol or drugs. If you plan on drinking, designate a designated driver to stay sober and drive or use a ride-sharing service to get home safely. It is also important to be aware of the signs of drunk driving in other drivers and report them to the authorities if necessary.

5. Poor Weather Conditions

Rain, snow, ice, and fog can all make driving more difficult and increase the risk of an accident. According to the Federal Highway Administration’s Road Weather Management Program, weather-related crashes account for approximately 21% of all car accidents in the United States.

To avoid accidents caused by poor weather conditions, it is important to adjust your driving behavior to match the current weather conditions. This may include slowing down, increasing your following distance, and using your headlights to improve visibility. In addition, make sure your vehicle is properly maintained and equipped with appropriate tires and windshield wipers to handle the weather conditions.

If you encounter severe weather conditions while driving, it may be best to pull over and wait until conditions improve.

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer Today

Car accidents in Brooklyn can be caused by many factors, including distracted driving, speeding, reckless driving, drunk driving, and poor weather conditions. By being aware of these top causes and avoiding them, drivers can help prevent accidents and keep themselves and others safe on the road.

If you or someone you know has been involved in a car accident, it is important to seek the assistance of a personal injury lawyer from Held, Held & Held in Brooklyn.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help you.