Some Facts about Traffic Accidents and Drivers

A while back, a study was done using American and British accident reports to determine the causes of car accidents. The results were that 57% of crashes were the result of driver factors. Another 27% were the result of driver and roadway factors. Six percent were the result of vehicle and driver factors, 3% solely roadway, 3% combined roadway, driver and vehicle, 2% solely vehicle, and 1% combined roadway and vehicle.

In other words, the combination of driver error, intoxication, and other human factors contribute wholly or in part to 93% of all crashes.

Most people believe they are better drivers than they really are. Often, those who have been in an accident do not believe they were at fault.

Some of the key elements of driving are:

• Controlling the car

• Reading and reacting to road conditions

• Alertness, reading and anticipating the behavior of other drivers.

The truth is that even a “good driver” can still be at a high risk of having an accident. Drivers are often more confident than they should be in challenging situations. They believe they have proven driving ability, and they remain confident until something goes awry.

There have been widespread efforts to improve road safety, including changes in road design, new rules of the road, new law enforcement policies including drinking and driving laws, new speed limits, and new ways to enforce speed limits. In some jurisdictions, driving tests try to gauge a new driver’s response in an emergency.

No matter how good a driver you may think you are and no matter how many improvements have been made to the driving environment, accidents will happen and can happen to you.

The Ormond Beach law firm of Johnson & Gilbert, P.A. understands the serious nature of truck and automobile accidents and the injuries that can result. Our firm will investigate the causes of any accident and pursue appropriate legal action.

Call a Florida car accident attorney today at 800-556-8890 for a free and confidential consultation if you have been involved in a car or truck accident.

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