What are the Main Causes of Car Accidents in Louisiana?

What are the main causes of car accidents in Louisiana? The primary causes of car accidents in Louisiana include distracted driving, intoxication, and speeding. 

These factors can cause serious injuries and fatalities that can deeply impact you and your family. If you have been unfairly harmed in a car crash, a New Orleans car accident lawyer can help you secure compensation for your injuries and losses.

Distracted Driving is a Primary Factor in Louisiana Vehicle Accidents

Distracted driving is one of the main causes of car accidents in Louisiana. Any action that pulls focus away from the road can affect a driver’s ability to react and prevent an accident, which poses a significant risk to other motorists. External stimuli, GPS devices, other occupants, and multitasking are a few of the most common types of driver distractions.

Cell phone use is the primary cause of distracted driving, though. Because of its prevalence and corresponding danger, Louisiana law prohibits drivers from texting or using social media while they are driving, except in limited circumstances. Violations of this law are subject to fines, which may vary depending on the offense. 

In addition to the physical danger that can result from distractions, it is also important to be aware of the legal consequences of distracted driving. If you have been injured by a distracted driver, you have the right to hold them accountable for their actions. If you are partially at fault for a distracted driving accident, then you may recover less in your case due to pure comparative negligence in Louisiana. 

Drunk Driving Numbers Have Increased in Recent Years

Drunk driving contributes to hundreds of car accidents in Louisiana every year. According to Louisiana State University’s Louisiana COBRA Dashboard, there were 13,675 DWI cases during the most recently reported year. This was a 4.29% increase over the year before. The majority of incidents occurred during the weekend. Males and individuals between the ages of 25 and 34 had the highest number of offenses. 

Drunk driving poses numerous dangers to both the driver and other motorists. Alcohol consumption slows a person’s ability to react quickly, estimate distances, and use judgment. It can also impair a driver’s ability to see clearly or coordinate their movements to drive properly. 

The more an individual drinks, the more their blood alcohol content (BAC) rises, and the more their ability to function decreases. In 154,257 DWI cases, individuals had a BAC between .1000 and .2000. These levels considerably affect motor and cognitive functions. 

Speeding Poses Considerable Dangers on Louisiana Roads

Speeding and aggressive or reckless driving are common contributors to a wide variety of accidents. Vehicles need enough time and space to come to a stop or react to threats around them. However, when drivers are speeding, tailgating, or engaging in other reckless or aggressive practices, the ability to stop and react is significantly reduced. 

Speeding and reckless driving can also result in severe accidents. The more speed involved at the time of collision, the greater the force of impact will be. The point of impact can further exacerbate the effects of speeding when an accident occurs, as each angle poses unique dangers. Speeding and aggressive behaviors can increase the chance that a driver will lose control of their vehicle. 

To limit the risk of being injured, it is important to be aware of speeding and aggressive driving prevention measures. If possible, allow a speeding or reckless driver to pass you. Move out of the way when you can and safely create as much space as possible between you and the other driver. Avoid letting another driver goad you into similar driving practices.

Additional Causes of Car Accidents

Failing to follow the rules of the road is a common cause of accidents. This may include not using turn signals, stopping at lights or signs, or failing to yield. These actions put others at risk since they violate traffic communication and the right of way.

Exhaustion is another frequent cause of collisions. Drivers who get behind the wheel in this state are a risk to themselves and others. Exhaustion has a similar effect to alcohol in the body and can impair a driver’s ability to react quickly, use good judgment, or retain control of the vehicle. 

Collisions can also be the result of poor road or weather conditions. When roads fall into disrepair, they can be hazardous to both drivers and their vehicles. Weather conditions can reduce visibility or create slippery surfaces that make it difficult to keep the vehicle within its lane. 

Louisiana has High Car Accident Fatality Numbers

According to the most recent full year of LSU crash data reports, there were a total of 752 fatalities across the state. These numbers primarily include drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and bicyclists. The data shows that individuals between the ages of 25 and 54 were at the highest overall risk of dying in an accident. In general, these individuals were predominantly male.

These numbers highlight the various dangers motorists face each year throughout Louisiana. However, some parishes see more fatalities than others. East Baton Rouge, Caddo, Orleans, St. Tammany, and Calcasieu have some of the highest fatality numbers among the parishes. Drivers must use extra caution in these and other areas to reduce the risk of harm and protect themselves from the accident causes above. 

The car accident causes mentioned here can also result in serious injuries. As such, the importance of seeing a doctor after a car accident is critical to your health, especially if you have internal or brain injuries. Every moment can make a difference in your prognosis and recovery. It is also important for us to keep thorough records of your condition and medical expenses as evidence in your case. 

Scott Vicknair Injury Lawyers Fight for the Win

Scott Vicknair Injury Lawyers help you hold drivers accountable when they cause a car accident that injures you. 

With 121 years of combined legal experience, we can effectively fight for you and secure results. Our client-focused team provides exceptional service no matter your circumstances. To get started with your car accident claim, contact us today for a free consultation.