Car accidents occur every day throughout the country.  Although a number of factors can cause car accidents, many are attributed to driver error or driver negligence.  Most of these accidents are largely preventable if drivers are more vigilant about safety and follow road rules.  Individuals injured under such circumstances may be entitled to recover compensation for their injuries and losses.  Sadly, car accidents result in hundreds of thousands of injuries and fatalities each year.

Why do Auto Accidents happen?

• Speeding:  Exceeding the speed limit increases car accident risk.  Drivers may not be able to control their vehicle when speeding fully.  The time and distance it takes to stop or slow down is extended, and drivers may be unable to avoid a car crash. Automobile collisions that occur at higher speeds have a more tremendous potential for causing catastrophic or fatal injuries.

• Impaired Driving:  Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is extremely dangerous.  Impaired drivers often suffer from slower reaction times, difficulty concentrating, poor judgment, lack of self-control, decreased coordination, and changes in vision.  These impairments affect not only the safety of the driver but all other drivers, passengers, and pedestrians on or near the road.

• Distracted Driving:  One of the leading causes of car accidents is distracted driving.  Distracted driving is any activity that takes a driver’s attention away from the primary task of driving.  Some distractions include using a cell phone, texting while driving, adjusting radio or temperature controls, applying makeup, eating, drinking, reading, and using a navigation system.  Engaging in any activity dramatically increases a driver’s chance of causing a car collision.

• Driver Fatigue:  Driving drowsy or falling asleep at the wheel increases the chances of a car accident.  Signs of driver fatigue include frequent blinking, heavy eyelids, yawning, drifting out of lanes, and irritability.  To avoid causing an accident, drivers must ensure they are fully rested before getting behind the wheel, take frequent breaks, know the symptoms of fatigue, and stop driving when they occur.

• Aggressive Driving:  Aggressive driving can encompass a multitude of several different driving behaviors.  Some examples include ignoring traffic signals, failing to yield, unsafe lane changes, failing to use signals, and tailgating.  These negligent drivers place all individuals on the road at risk of becoming victims of a potentially serious car accident.

• Defective Automobile Parts:  Automobile manufacturers must design, make, and market vehicles that meet specific safety standards.  Unfortunately, some car accidents occur as a result of defective vehicle equipment.  This can include faulty brakes, tires, steering, suspension, seat belts, and airbags.

• Poor Vehicle Maintenance:  Drivers are responsible for maintaining their vehicles in good operating order.  Failing to provide the proper maintenance or necessary vehicle repairs can result in a devastating car accident.

• Poor Weather Conditions:  Numerous weather conditions can make driving a car difficult.  Drivers must be cautious when inclement weather conditions like rain, snow, ice, and sleet exist.

• Road Conditions:  External factors can play a contributory role in causing a car accident.  Some examples include debris in the roadway, potholes, poorly designed roadways, construction zones, inadequate signage, and negligent maintenance of roadways

Dedicated Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyer Providing Comprehensive Legal Support for Accident Victims —Jay L. Edelstein, Esquire of Edelstein Law

Philadelphia car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Jay L. Edelstein, Attorney at Law, are a well-respected Philadelphia personal injury law firm with the knowledge and resources to investigate and pursue all types of car accident claims in Pennsylvania and Southern New Jersey.  We have been representing injured victims and families since 1999 and have established a proven track record of attaining successful verdicts and settlements.  We are a dedicated team that works hard to help our clients get the compensation they deserve for their injuries, lost wages, medical expenses, and other damages.

Other Car Accident Practice Areas:

• Aggressive Driving and Road Rage

• Common Causes of Car Accidents

• Distracted Driving Accidents

• Drunk Driving Accidents

• Drowsy Driving Accidents

• Equipment Defects

• Multi-Vehicle Car Accidents

• Pedestrian Accidents

• Poor Weather Conditions

• Speeding Accidents