According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), in 2020 and 2021, Mississippi had over 700 deaths due to car crashes. This number has continued to rise over the years and doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon. With the large number of crashes on the roads in Mississippi, it makes us wonder what are the common causes of car wrecks?
- Distracted Driving
While many of the new features in cars and on phones today try to prevent distracted driving it still seems to be a problem for many drivers. Trying to focus on anything other than driving causes danger for you and anyone else on the road, whether its texting, talking on the phone, doing makeup, eating, or just looking at the scenery doing any of these while driving can turn deadly in a second. Do yourself and others a favor and wait till you’ve made it to your destination to finish that text or sandwich.
- Drunk Driving
Driving while under the influence is not only illegal it’s also deadly. In 2021 13,384 died from alcohol related car crashes in the US, which is a 14% increase from the year before. If you or someone you’re with is under the influence of alcohol or drugs call a friend or a cab, it could save someone’s life and lot of money.
- Reckless Driving
Whether you’re swerving all over the road or speeding to make an appointment, driving reckless can turn into a deadly situation very quickly. A speeding ticket can not only cost you your license or a hefty fine, but it could also cost someone their life.
- Speeding
Speeding is a factor in over 30% of all fatal car crashes in Mississippi. Drivers who speed are more likely to lose control of their vehicles and crash.
- Weather Conditions
There is no shortage of bad weather in Mississippi, from snow and ice to tornados and hail, the roads can be very dangerous in bad weather. When you plan to go out make sure to take a look at the weather to see what the road conditions could be like and always use extreme caution when driving through bad weather.
- Mechanical problems
Mechanical problems can also cause car wrecks. If a vehicle’s brakes, tires, or other components fail, it can lead to a crash.
There are other causes of car wrecks, but these are some of the most common causes of car wrecks listed.
There are many things that drivers can do to prevent car wrecks. Some of the most important things include:
- Never drink and drive. If you are going to drink alcohol, make sure to have a designated driver or use public transportation.
- Pay attention to the road. Don’t be distracted by your phone, food, or other activities.
- Obey the speed limit. Don’t speed, even if you think you can get away with it.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to other drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.
- Be prepared for bad weather. Slow down and use caution when driving in bad weather.
- Get your car serviced regularly. Make sure your car is in good working condition and that all of the components are working properly.
By viewing these common causes of car wrecks and following these tips, you can help to prevent car wrecks and keep yourself and others safe on the road in Mississippi.
Have you or a loved one been injured in a car wreck in the Jackson, MS area? Contact the dedicated Personal Injury Attorneys of Chhabra & Gibbs, P.A. We have a team of accident lawyers standing by to help you get the compensation you deserve. Call us at 601-948-8005 for a FREE consultation. For additional information about causes of car wrecks or what to do if you have been in a motor vehicle accident visit cglawms.com or go to our Motor Vehicle Accident area of our website.
