Car accidents can happen in various ways but typically result from driver negligence and error. When drivers violate the rules of the road, operate their vehicles while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, engage in distracted driving, and drive aggressively or erratically, they significantly increase their chances of causing serious traffic accidents. Rules of the road are in place to keep both drivers and passengers safe. When drivers disregard speed limits, right-of-way laws, and turn signal laws in their jurisdiction, they are more likely to cause an accident. The same is true when drivers tailgate other vehicles or drive aggressively. When a driver speeds and violates other road rules, they may be unable to stop their vehicle in time to avoid a crash with another vehicle or pedestrian. Like road rule violations, intoxicated and drugged driving is another common cause of car accidents. Alcohol and drugs can significantly impair a driver’s concentration and reaction time, preventing them from stopping their vehicle quickly. As a result of drug and alcohol intoxication, drivers may also experience physical symptoms, like nausea and blurred vision, which may prevent them from seeing other vehicles and pedestrians. Passenger vehicle drivers with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 percent or higher are legally intoxicated. However, in most jurisdictions, the legal limits for minors who are under 21 years old, as well as commercial vehicle drivers, are much lower. Whenever a driver sustains a criminal conviction for DUI, they may incur significant fines, jail time, and other penalties. Moreover, if they cause a traffic accident that leads to others’ injuries, they and their insurance companies can be responsible for the resulting civil damages. In addition to drunk driving, another common cause of car crashes is distracted vehicle operation. A distracted driver does not pay sufficient attention to the road while behind the wheel. Instead of observing the road, the driver might be fiddling with a GPS navigation system, sending a text message on their cellular phone, playing on a tablet, roughhousing with others in the vehicle, or listening to loud music. These activities may prove distracting for a driver, causing them to divert their attention away from the road. When a driver turns their head for just one or two seconds, they may not see an oncoming vehicle or pedestrian, causing a crash that leads to debilitating injuries. Finally, some car crashes happen when drivers exhibit road rage. Road rage is a driver’s inappropriate and unwarranted reaction to a roadway situation. Sometimes, drivers are simply in a foul mood, while others might overreact to traffic or other road conditions. For example, a driver might become enraged when another driver cuts them off or drives too slowly. As a result, the angry driver might attempt to bypass the other driver by speeding around them, weaving in and out of traffic, or failing to use a turn signal. These aggressive driving maneuvers can sometimes lead to unintentional traffic accidents that cause injuries to others. If you suffered injuries in a recent car crash that resulted from one of these types of driver negligence, you have legal rights and options available. Once you contact a knowledgeable car accident lawyer in your jurisdiction, they can start working on your case immediately by investigating the accident circumstances and determining your claim-filing eligibility. If you’re eligible to file a claim, your lawyer can assist you with every step of the process and work towards an efficient resolution, either through settlement or litigation.