8 Common Causes Of Car Accidents In Santa Barbara

08 Apr, 24

Car accidents are very common and can happen to anyone regardless of their experience and at any time. This is why it is important to understand the common causes of car accidents so as to avoid them in the future. Below are eight common reasons for car accidents and how to prevent them.

Distracted Driving

Distraction while driving is among the major causes of road accidents. This encompasses anything that distracts your focus from the road, including texting, eating, talking on the phone, or changing the radio station.

If you want to prevent an accident, avoid distractions while driving and keep your eyes on the road. Switch off your phone, ensure you are done with your meal before embarking on the journey, and ensure that your music or GPS is set before you begin the journey. Do not take your eyes off the road and do not remove your hands from the steering wheel.

Speeding

Driving at a very high speed is reckless and it puts the lives of both the driver and those on the road at risk because there is a high chance of an accident occurring. Excessive speed reduces the time the driver has to respond to traffic signals or other events on the road and also decreases the ability to steer the vehicle safely. It is good to always observe the set speed limit. Speed limits are for a reason, based on the road conditions and the traffic that is always present on that road.

Reckless Driving

Reckless driving is any behavior that puts you and other road users in danger such as tailgating, switching lanes without signaling others on the road, and running a red light. Such actions may result in serious consequences like fatal accidents. Drive responsibly and courteously. Do not overtake other vehicles, turn on the indicator light when you are turning, and always follow traffic light signals and signs.

Drunk Driving

Alcohol hinders your capacity to drive by reducing general performance as well as judgment, coordination, and response time. Driving after taking loads of alcohol is against the law and is one of the most deadly forms of car accidents. Never drink and drive. If you’ll be consuming, make sure to have a designated driver, an Uber/Lyft, or a taxi or to use the bus. It is not worth endangering oneself or the lives of others.

Weather Conditions

Another factor that can make driving conditions dangerous for you and other road users is terrible weather such as heavy rain, snow, or fog. When you are driving on a road and there’s snow all over, you should expect the road to be very slippery and your visibility diminished, all of which may cause accidents. If the weather conditions are poor, you have to adjust the way you drive. Reduce your speed, increase the gap between you and the car in front of you, and switch on your headlights to better illuminate the road.

Running Red Lights

Failure to obey traffic signals and driving through red light is one of the most common causes of accidents at intersections. It sometimes results in high speed impacts which could be fatal. Always obey traffic signals and be careful when approaching a junction.

Fatigue

Fatigue driving is as lethal as driving while drunk. Fatigue impairs your focus, decreases your alertness, and can even make you doze off while driving. It is important that you are well-rested before taking the wheel. Do not drive for long hours without a break and if possible, try to take turns with another person.

Vehicle Defects

It is important to note that mechanical breakdowns or mechanical flaws in a car can cause accidents. Some of the typical challenges that drivers face include brake failure, tire bursts, and steering issues. Always service your car and take it for a check-up by a mechanic if possible. Tire, brake, light, and other safety-related issues should be checked often. Any mechanical problems that come up should be fixed immediately to avoid having a dangerous situation on the road.

Maintain Your Safety Features at Santa Barbara Autowerks

Here at Santa Barbara Autowerks, we are the premier German master technicians in Santa Barbara and have been providing service to the residents of the city for many years now. For you to have a safe drive, you need to service your car frequently. All the safety features such as brakes, airbags, and other related systems in your car can always be checked by our technicians. Hiring our services means that the job will be done right the first time with the right tools and knowledge. Give us a call at 805-966-3200 to set an appointment.