Top 10 Causes of Car Accidents

November 3, 2016


Car accidents have numerous causes, but there are some well-known activities that increase the risk of getting into a car accident. Here are the top 10:

 

1. DUI

Driving under the influence of alcohol is a major contributor to auto accidents, and in fact, these accidents can be more deadly than crashes that have other causes.

2. Speeding

Speeding can not only cause a car accident, it can also amplify the effects of the accident. This means that injuries are likely to be worse when speeding is involved.

3. Texting and Driving

Texting and driving is illegal in many areas, but many people ignore this law and continue to operate their cell phones and a vehicle at the same time. This prevents people from reacting quickly on the road.

4. Inexperienced Drivers

Teen drivers and other inexperienced drivers can easily cause accidents when they’re not familiar with the laws of the road or how to handle a vehicle.

5. Night Driving  

Driving at night means objects are more difficult to see. The glare from headlights on passing cars can also make it challenging to see the road ahead of you.

6. Tailgating

Driving too close to someone when following them is known as tailgating, and it is a major cause of rear-end collisions. It’s important to always stay at least one car length away from the vehicle in front of you for every 10 mph you are driving.

7. Inclement Weather

Snow, ice, rain, and other types of inclement weather naturally make driving more difficult. If you can avoid driving in inclement weather, do so. However, for those who cannot avoid it, the chances of getting into an accident are higher.

8. Fatigue

Drowsy driving is almost as dangerous as drunk driving. Falling asleep at the wheel can cause your car to careen off the road and hit another car, a stationary object, or even a cyclist or pedestrian.

9. Road Rage

Aggressive driving due to road rage is a significant cause of accidents, and it is completely preventable.

10. Distracted Driving

Another major cause of vehicle collisions is distracted driving, apart from texting and driving. Engaging in other activities like putting on makeup or eating means that your attention isn’t fully on the road.

 

If you or a loved one have been injured in a collision where someone else was at fault, you may be eligible for compensation for your injuries and other damages. Contact the Sarkisian Law Offices today for a consultation by calling 219-942-7171.

 

Trying to figure out bills after no longer working from accident
By Sarkisian Law Offices • October 6, 2026
If a crash ended your career, Indiana law allows recovery for lost earning capacity. How those claims are calculated, proven, and contested.
Gray child car seat secured on a black car back seat, facing sideways in the rear passenger area.
By Sarkisian Law Offices • September 29, 2026
Children are injured differently than adults in crashes. Pediatric injury patterns, Indiana car seat law, and why early settlements carry real risk.
Semi-truck traveling on a Northwest Indiana interstate highway
By Sarkisian Law Offices • September 22, 2026
A truck crash rarely has one liable party. Learn when an Indiana trucking company is responsible, from negligent hiring to hours-of-service violations.
Attorney reviewing a contract with a client across a desk in a law office
By Sarkisian Law Offices • September 15, 2026
What to ask in a free consultation with an Indiana injury lawyer, from contingency fees and case costs to comparative fault and filing deadlines.
Two cars after a rear-end collision on a Northwest Indiana road
By Sarkisian Law Offices • September 8, 2026
Is the rear driver always at fault in an Indiana rear-end crash? Not always. Learn how comparative fault, brake-checking, and evidence decide who pays.
Front wheel of a black motorcycle parked on a sunlit paved street
By Sarkisian Law Offices • September 3, 2026
Indiana insurers assume riders were reckless before reviewing evidence. See how that bias cuts settlements and what evidence pushes back.
Show More