Car accidents are upsetting events that can lead to injuries, property damage, and legal disputes. Determining fault in a car accident is a very important step in assigning liability and understanding potential financial obligations. While some scenarios make fault clear, others may require an investigation. Below, we discuss common behaviors, actions, and situations that can make you at fault for a car accident.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is one of the top causes of car accidents in the US.  The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states that distracted driving caused over 3,500 fatalities in 2021 alone. Common distractions include:

• Texting or using a smartphone: Even a few seconds of looking away from the road can lead to catastrophic results.
• Eating or drinking: Multitasking while driving diverts your focus from the road.
• Adjusting the radio or GPS: Taking your hands or eyes off the wheel to make adjustments increases the risk of accidents.
• Talking to passengers: Conversations that require you to frequently turn your head can impair your focus.

Speeding or Driving Too Fast for Conditions

Going over the speed limit not only violates traffic laws but also decreases your reaction time, making it harder to avoid a collision. Even if you are driving within the speed limit, you may still be at fault if you are traveling too fast for weather or road conditions, such as:

• Rain, snow, or icy roads
• Poor visibility due to fog or heavy rain
• Road construction zones

Drivers are legally required to adjust their speed based on current conditions to ensure safety. Failing to do so can make you liable for an accident.

Running Red Lights or Stop Signs

Traffic signals and signs are designed to control the flow of vehicles and reduce accidents at intersections. Disobeying these rules, like running a red light or failing to stop at a stop sign, often creates high-risk situations. These actions often lead to severe collisions, particularly side-impact or T-bone crashes. In nearly all cases, the driver who violates a traffic signal is deemed at fault.

Following Too Closely (Tailgating)

Tailgating is one of the most common driving mistakes that result in rear-end collisions. The law generally requires drivers to leave sufficient space between their car and the vehicle in front to stop safely. As a rule of thumb, drivers should maintain a minimum of three-second following distance under normal conditions, with more distance required in bad weather. Failing to maintain this distance can make you at fault, even if the driver in front brakes suddenly.

Driving Under the Influence

Driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol is not only illegal but also one of the most dangerous behaviors on the road. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 32 people die every day in the United States as a result of drunk driving. Impaired drivers experience:

• Slowed reaction times
• Reduced coordination
• Poor judgment and decision-making

In almost all DUI-related accidents, the impaired driver is held responsible.

Improper Lane Changes

Failing to change lanes safely can also lead to accidents. Common errors include:

• Not signaling before merging
• Failing to check blind spots
• Cutting off another vehicle
• Changing lanes in an intersection

Many states have laws requiring drivers to signal and ensure the lane is clear before merging. Failure to follow these rules might make you liable for any accidents that happen.

Fatigued Driving

Although less discussed, drowsy driving poses significant risks. A study by the National Safety Council revealed that driving while fatigued is possibly just as dangerous as driving under the influence. Common causes of drowsy driving include:

• Long work hours
• Sleep disorders
• Medication side effects

If you fall asleep at the wheel or have impaired reflexes due to fatigue, you may be held responsible for an accident.

Illegal or Unsafe Turns

Improper turning practices often result in collisions, especially at intersections. Examples of unsafe turning include:

• Making a left turn without yielding to oncoming traffic
• Turning at a red light where prohibited
• Failing to use turn signals
• Making a U-turn in a no-U-turn zone

Drivers are expected to follow traffic laws and anticipate the movements of other vehicles and pedestrians while turning. Ignoring these rules can lead to liability in an accident.

Ignoring Weather Conditions

Weather plays a huge role in road safety. Drivers are expected to exercise extra caution during adverse conditions such as:

• Rain or snow: Reduced traction can lead to skidding or hydroplaning.
• Fog: Poor visibility increases the risk of rear-end collisions.
• High winds: These can cause vehicles to drift unexpectedly.

Failing to adapt your driving to the weather can make you at fault in an accident, even if you had the right-of-way.

Vehicle Maintenance Neglect

Driving a poorly maintained vehicle can also result in accidents. For example, if your brakes fail or your tires blow out because of neglect, you could be held responsible. Common maintenance issues that lead to accidents include:

• Worn-out brake pads
• Bald or underinflated tires
• Malfunctioning headlights or brake lights

Drivers are legally responsible for ensuring their vehicles are roadworthy.

Conclusion

While accidents can happen to anyone, most crashes result from preventable behaviors. Avoiding distractions, obeying traffic laws, and adapting to road conditions can significantly reduce your chances of being found at fault. If you are involved in an accident, evidence such as witness statements, dashcam footage, and police reports will play a vital role in determining liability. 

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