Common Causes of Car Accidents in Lincoln, Nebraska
Car accidents in Lincoln, Nebraska, happen more often than many residents realize. By understanding the most common causes, drivers can take simple steps to reduce risks and make the city’s roads safer for everyone.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is the leading cause of accidents in Lincoln. Specific examples include phone use, eating, and talking to passengers. As far as using a GPS is concerned, before you put your car in gear, take a moment to enter your destination and review your route. Adjusting your GPS while you are driving takes your eyes off the road for several seconds, which is long enough to cause an accident. Using voice commands and/or hands-free features on your electronic devices and the car itself are great ways to minimize distractions and keep both you and your passengers as safe as possible. Research shows that one in five crashes are related to behaviors that cause the driver to make risky driving decisions while behind the wheel. It’s important that drivers remember to stay focused and alert while driving to minimize their risk of accidents.
Speeding and Reckless Driving
Speeding while on certain roads such as Highway 77, Cornhusker Highway, and O Street all contribute to higher levels of accidents. It is especially dangerous on Lincoln’s long, straight roadways where drivers may underestimate how quickly conditions can change. Statistically, speeding reduces a person’s reaction time and causes potential injuries to be more severe. Drivers should specifically focus on being more cautious in high traffic areas as well as school zones and construction sites.
Driving Under the Influence
Alcohol and drug use continue to be leading causes of fatal car accidents. There are numerous campaigns that are dedicated to spreading awareness and encouraging people to drink responsibly and avoid getting behind the wheel. Most notably, Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over increases public awareness by stressing the dangers of impaired driving and highlighting resources that have statistics to keep everyone more informed. The bottom line is to try and avoid any inhibitive substance before driving, and to follow Nebraska state law pertaining to alcohol consumption and driving (0.08% Blood Alcohol Content for drivers 21 and older).
Weather and Road Conditions
Lincoln, Nebraska is known for having harsh weather conditions, particularly in winter months. This can lead to icy roads with tumultuous storms that result in a spike of car accidents. Ways to avoid high risk is to slow down driving speeds and try planning around driving during times of the day when bad weather isn’t at its worst. Taking other precautions, such as wiping excess snow off of your windshield so that your view is not obstructed is also highly recommended.
Failing to Yield and Running Red Lights
Accidents at intersections are very common. This is especially typical in places where the driver’s visibility is limited or obstructed. Places in Lincoln to keep in mind are the intersections of 27th and Cornhusker, and 48th and O Street. While lack of visibility is a high contributor, it’s not the only cause of these accidents at intersections. Driver impatience, along with misjudging incoming traffic also factor into the high rates of these accidents. The best way to combat these characteristics would be to practice defensive driving, while paying special attention to traffic signs and signals.
If You’ve Been Injured in a Car Accident in Lincoln
Even when drivers take every precaution possible, accidents can still happen. If you have been injured in a car accident at the fault of another driver and are looking for help, you do not have to face this alone. The experienced attorneys at Shasteen, Morris, & Ockander PC help Lincoln residents recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages pertaining to their accidents. Make sure you request your free consultation as soon as possible so that you can get the necessary help that you deserve.
