Most of us take for granted the risks and serious responsibilities we take on each and every time we get behind the wheel. Driving is simply what we do day in and day out. That complacency doesn't mean you are inherently a dangerous driver, but maybe we can all use an occasional reminder about the responsibility that comes with driving more than a ton of metal at high speeds.
That said, here are some of the most common causes of traffic accidents.
Speeding
According to U.S. Census data, there were 10,591 traffic fatalities in 2009 that were related to speeding. It heightens the chance for an accident for two main reasons: the driver’s reaction time is shortened and everyone that comes within close proximity of the speeding vehicle has less time to react as well.
You may think that highways are where most speeding fatalities occur, but most actually happen on non-interstate roadways. According to NHTSA data from 2006, 47 percent of speeding deaths happen on roads with a posted speed limit of 50 mph or less. Over 20 percent happened on roads posted at 35 mph or less.
