Car Accident Causes and Preventative Measures

Like any other busy state, California has a high number of car accidents. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, in 2019, there were over 3,500 fatalities and more than 250,000 injuries due to car accidents in the state.

In the event of an accident in Bakersfield that’s not your fault, you should contact top Bakersfield auto accident lawyers to help you pursue compensation for your damages. These experienced lawyers will help you navigate the legal system and get the justice you deserve.

California Car Driving Laws

California is home to some of the busiest highways in the world. To ensure the safety of all drivers and passengers on the road, the state has implemented various laws that drivers must abide by. Here are five California car driving laws that all drivers should be aware of:

Seat Belt Law

All drivers and passengers must wear seat belts while driving in California. The law requires that seat belts are worn properly and securely at all times. Failure to comply with this law can result in a fine.

Handheld Device Law 

California has a hands-free law that prohibits drivers from using their mobile devices while driving. Drivers are not allowed to hold their phones while driving and should use a hands-free device instead. Breaking this law can result in a fine.

DUI Law

California has a zero-tolerance policy for driving under the influence (DUI). It is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. The penalties for a DUI conviction include jail time, fines, and suspension of your driver’s license.

Lane Change Law

Drivers in California are required to use their turn signals when changing lanes. This law helps to prevent accidents caused by sudden lane changes. Failure to use your turn signal can result in a fine.

Move Over Law

If you see emergency vehicles with their lights flashing, California requires drivers to move over to the right lane or slow down to a safe speed when passing. This law is designed to protect law enforcement officers and other emergency workers while they are on the road.

The state of California has numerous driving laws besides the ones discussed above. These laws ensure the safety of all drivers and passengers on the road. As a driver in California, you should be aware of these laws to avoid fines, and accidents, and to stay safe on the road.

What Are The Common Causes Of Car Crashes in California?

There are many different reasons why car crashes occur, and understanding these causes is crucial in preventing them. Here are the common causes of car crashes in California:

Distracted Driving

One of the most common causes of car crashes in California is distracted driving. This can include texting, talking on the phone, eating, or adjusting the radio while driving.

Right of Way Law

When driving, you must yield the right of way to pedestrians, bicyclists, and other vehicles that have the right of way. You must also obey traffic signals and signs that indicate who has the right of way.

Speeding

Exceeding the speed limit is another major cause of car crashes in California. When drivers speed, they have less time to react to unexpected events, such as a pedestrian crossing the street.

Intoxicated Driving

Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a serious offense in California, and it can have devastating consequences. Drunk driving is responsible for many car crashes each year.

Reckless Driving

Reckless driving is another major cause of car crashes in California. This can include driving aggressively, weaving in and out of traffic, and ignoring traffic signals.

Bad Weather Conditions

Rain, fog, and other poor weather conditions can make driving more difficult and increase the risk of car crashes.

Vehicle Malfunctions

Sometimes, car crashes are caused by vehicle malfunctions, such as:

• Faulty brakes;

• Worn tires, or

• Defective parts, and others.

Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent these types of accidents.

Driver Fatigue

Driving while fatigued can impair a driver’s ability to react quickly and make sound decisions. This can lead to car crashes, especially on long road trips.

Inexperienced Drivers

Inexperienced drivers, such as teenagers or those who have recently received their licenses, are at a higher risk of being involved in car crashes. This is because they may not have the skills or enough experience to handle unexpected situations on the road.

Car crashes are a serious problem in California, and there are many different causes of these accidents. By understanding the common causes of car crashes, drivers can take steps to prevent them and keep themselves and others safe on the road. If you’ve been involved in a car crash, you should contact a car accident attorney for legal help.