South Carolina is currently the second-most dangerous state for drivers. Accidents happen every day, and while the severity of those accidents will vary, even minor accidents can lead to serious health issues and costly medical bills. Working with a Myrtle Beach car accident lawyer can help you get a better settlement from the other driver’s insurance company, but understanding the top causes of car accidents can help you better avoid becoming a victim or causing an accident yourself.
1. Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents in the greater Myrtle Beach area. So, what is distracted driving? It’s trying to multitask anytime you’re behind the wheel. This may look like texting while you’re driving, pulling up music playlists on your phone, disciplining a child, or even eating. Anything that takes your attention away from the road and surrounding traffic can lead to a big enough distraction to cause an accident. Try to stay focused on driving whenever possible. This way, you’ll be better able to spot distracted drivers on the road.
2. Bad Weather
Driving in bad weather can lead to everything from minor fender benders to fatal crashes. Remember, even a small amount of rain on the road can cause your car to hydroplane, making you lose control. But if you’re driving in fog, hail, heavy rain, or any other conditions that impede your visibility on the road, you increase your risk of getting into an accident. Other drivers may not be able to see you clearly and you could miss hazards that you’d otherwise be able to see. If you have to drive in bad weather, make sure your headlights are on, slow your speeds, and give yourself extra room to stop. This can help you reduce your risk of hitting someone or getting hit by someone.
3. Driving While Sleepy
Though drunk driving is always a top cause of accidents, there’s one condition that can mimic drunk driving even when you’re sober: driving while sleepy. Believe it or not, your reaction time slows dramatically when you’re tired. If you’re exhausted from work or are feeling ill and drowsy, getting behind the wheel puts you at an increased risk of getting into an accident.
4. Speeding
The speed limits around town exist for a reason: to keep everyone on the road or near the road safer. When drivers speed, especially in low-speed zones, there’s an increased risk that they’ll hit someone. Higher speeds mean it takes longer to stop, making it harder to dodge hazards like pedestrians trying to cross the street or cars stopping suddenly as a ball rolls into the road. The best way to mitigate your risk of getting into an accident or causing an accident is to drive at the speed limit at all times.
Get Help If You’re the Victim of an Accident
If you’ve been involved in an accident and are worried about the size of the settlement the responsible driver’s insurance will provide, don’t navigate the process alone. Contact Lam Law Firm to schedule a free consultation and see how an experienced Myrtle Beach car accident lawyer can help your case.
