Distracted driving is the number one cause of car accidents in Virginia, according to the most recent data. That may come as little surprise to drivers who have had close calls – or worse – because another motorist was looking at their phone instead of keeping their eyes and attention on the road.
Being aware of both the prevalence and the dangers of distracted driving can help discourage drivers from putting their own lives and others at risk.
What Is the Number One Cause of Virginia Crashes?
Distracted driving caused 21,528 accidents in one recent year, accounting for nearly 17 percent of all vehicle accidents statewide, according to a report from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles.
The 21,528 distracted-driving-related Virginia traffic accidents:
- Caused 11,521 injuries
- Killed 64 people
- Resulted in 30 traffic fatalities because the distracted driver was speeding
- Caused 12 deaths due to the distracted driver’s intoxication
Additionally, nearly two-thirds of distracted driving auto accidents involved multiple vehicles. The leading causes of distraction were drivers letting their eyes drift from the road, using cell phones or texting, and looking at roadside incidents as they passed by (sometimes called rubbernecking).
Other Common Causes of Car Accidents in Virginia
Distracted driving is far from the only cause of motor vehicle accidents and often combines with other factors to cause collisions.
Some of the other common factors contributing to Virginia traffic accidents include:
- Driving at excessive speeds or at speeds that are unsafe for the road or weather conditions
- Failing to yield the right-of-way at intersections or while merging
- Driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs
- Adverse road conditions resulting from weather-related factors, debris on the roadway, or poor road maintenance
Why Knowing the Leading Cause of Car Crashes Matters After an Accident
Knowing that distracted driving causes most motor vehicle collisions can be helpful in the aftermath of a crash, as it means potential driver distraction will be one of the first factors a car accident attorney will look into when beginning their investigation. Evidence that another driver was texting, using their phone, adjusting dashboard controls, or otherwise distracted can go a long way toward establishing their liability for the crash.
Clear proof that the other driver was distracted may also protect an injured person’s ability to recover compensation. Strong evidence of the other driver’s distraction can influence insurance negotiations and strengthen a personal injury claim.
Talk to a Virginia Car Accident Lawyer at Our Law Firm
Were you injured in a Virginia traffic accident that you believe occurred because another driver was distracted? An experienced car accident lawyer from the office of D. Michael Mullori, Jr., Attorney at Law, is ready to review your case and explain your legal options.
You may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, and other accident-related financial and personal losses. We will investigate and push for full, fair compensation to help you move forward with confidence after a collision.
Contact us today or call anytime at (703) 762-2142 to arrange a free initial consultation with an experienced car accident attorney at our law firm. Our office is conveniently located at 2500 Hunter Pl, Unit 102, Woodbridge, VA. We can help!
