To err is to be human, right? This proverb might make us feel better about the mistakes we make, but some errors have tragic consequences that last a lifetime.
Every day, people die in car accidents on U.S. roads. Most of these collisions are entirely avoidable. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 94 percent of all crashes are caused by some form of human error.
A two-year study by the NHTSA found that the vast majority of fatal road accidents are caused by one of these categories of driver mistakes:
- Recognition errors, such as taking your eyes off the road;
- Decision errors, such as choosing to drive too fast;
- Performance errors, such as losing control; and
- Non-performance errors, such as falling asleep behind the wheel.
If you were hurt in a crash with a negligent driver in Iowa, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, vehicle damage and other expenses. Contact a Cedar Rapids accident lawyer from Eells & Tronvold Law Offices, PLC to discuss your legal options.
Call 319-393-1020 to schedule a free consultation with a personal-injury attorney. You can also visit USAttorneys.com to learn more about car accident injury claims in Iowa.
3 Tips That Will Help You Avoid Most Accidents
There are countless factors that can contribute to collisions, but some causes of accidents are particularly common. These three tips will help you avoid most crashes:
1. Don’t Drive Distracted
Many people believe that texting or making calls has only a minor impact on their ability to drive, but the reality is that smartphones are a leading cause of car accidents in the United States. Switch your phone off or put it on silent before you hit the road.
2. Don’t Speed
Driving too fast for the conditions is still a leading cause of accidents across the country, despite speed limits and the strict laws that enforce them. Don’t be tempted to drive faster than the posted speed limit, and in poor weather, the fastest you should travel is two-thirds the speed limit.
3. Don’t Drive Drunk
Alcohol contributes to a deplorable number of accidents, injuries and deaths every year. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that between 2003 and 2012, 968 people were killed in Iowa crashes involving an intoxicated driver.
You should also intervene if a friend or family member intends to drive under the influence. Mothers Against Drunk Driving recommends that you take a non-confrontational approach. Recommend alternative means to get home such as a sober driver or a taxi. If you are hosting a party, let the person stay the night. If all else fails, then take his or her keys.
Were you hurt in a car accident with a negligent driver? Contact a personal-injury attorney from Eells & Tronvold Law Offices, PLC. A Cedar Rapids accident lawyer will assess your case to determine if you have grounds for a claim. Call 319-393-1020 to schedule a consultation.
