Washington, D.C. is home to over 600,000 people. With DC being the capital, there are millions of tourists and government officials coming to and from the city, meaning there are thousands upon thousands of vehicles on the roads every day and night. Like with anywhere in the US, car accidents occur in DC, so here are five main causes of them.
Distracted Driving
Without hesitation, distracted driving is the number one cause of crashes in DC. A distracted driver is somebody who doesn’t have their full focus on the road. Whether they’re checking their smartphone, speaking to fellow passengers, or eating, it can be easy to lose concentration and put not only yourself but other motorists and pedestrians at risk. If you are in DC and have been hit by a distracted driver, https://www.rnllaw.com/dc-car-accident-lawyer/ can help.
Drunk Driving
Any driver who has had a drink before getting behind the wheel is both a danger to themselves and those on the road. When you consume alcohol, your cognitive function and senses are dulled, meaning reaction times are slowed down. Whatever you do, you should refrain from drinking before driving. It’s estimated that around 28 people die in drunk-driving crashes in the United States every day.
Speeding
Whether you’re on a business trip to DC and have an important business meeting to attend to, or you’re traveling home from work, many drivers neglect the speed limits, which puts you at immediate risk of a crash. On the highway, it’s common to see drivers blast past you, but the faster you drive, the longer it will take to slow down. Driving 20 miles over the speed limit will significantly increase your chance of a car accident.
Reckless Driving
When in the hustle and bustle of the city, you may see lots of drivers tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, or cutting drivers off. These are all instances of reckless driving, which is another common cause of accidents in the capital. Should you spot anyone driving like this, you should steer clear and not be in harm’s way. You shouldn’t try to intervene as you could be putting yourself in danger. Instead, call 911.
Bad Weather
The weather in DC can be unpredictable at the best of times. When a heavy downpour arrives in the city, excess water can cause cars to slip and slide, which makes bad weather conditions another common cause of car accidents. If you’re driving in bad weather, you must pay extra attention to the road. There are lots of tips for driving in severe weather that will help keep you protected and ensure you arrive at your destination safely, such as slowing down, leaving room in front, and keeping your eyes on the road at all times.
Thousands of people die in car accidents across the United States every year, with a small percentage stemming from DC. Whether you’re a resident, visiting the capital for business, or going sightseeing, make sure you take great care when navigating on DC roads.
