When you are out on the road, you generally expect other drivers to be responsible. While you may experience frustration over motorists who do not use their turn signals or drive at different speeds than you prefer, you assume the majority of drivers are safe. Unfortunately, you may encounter careless drivers who cause you to get in a wreck.
In fact, aggressive driving behaviors account for over half of fatal collisions, shares the Insurance Information Institute. Here are a few of the most common negligent driving behaviors.
Aggressive driving
Dangerous behaviors that lead to fatal crashes include:
- Improper lane changing
- Excessive speeding
- Running stop signs or red lights
- Following improperly
- Failing to yield the right of way
- Street racing
- Passing over a double-yellow line
Even if these actions do not result in a fatality, they may cause severe injuries.
Distracted driving
Distractions are everywhere these days. Common distractions include:
- Texting or talking on the phone
- Eating or drinking
- Adjusting the stereo
- Using the navigation or entertainment system
- Talking to passengers
Put simply, a distraction is any activity that causes a motorist to focus on something other than driving safely.
Driving under the influence
Perhaps the most dangerous and negligent driving behavior is driving while drunk or high. Some people think that getting behind the wheel after consuming alcohol or using drugs is a good idea. Sadly, driving while impaired endangers everyone on the streets. Whether it is marijuana, beer, cocaine or wine, driving under the influence is one of the most careless things any motorist can do.
Even if you are the most defensive and safest driver on the road, you can never prevent other drivers from being unreliable. Drivers who exhibit these behaviors and cause accidents must face the consequences. If a driver causes you to get hurt, you should hold him or her legally accountable for all the financial, physical and emotional costs of your injuries.
