Oceanside/Carlsbad Car Accident Lawyer

Common Causes of Car Accidents in North San Diego County

In San Diego County, nearly 14,000 car accidents occur each year which result in the injury of at least one person.  A bustling metropolis with numerous interconnected highways, a thriving trucking industry and much commuter traffic, San Diego County is among the most dangerous places to drive.

The following is a list of some of the most common causes of car accidents in North San Diego County:

1. Distracted Driving—driving while distracted is the number one cause of accidents, both locally and nationwide.  Texting, talking on the phone, eating, grooming, emailing, and reading are just some of the ways drivers become distracted.  Studies show that drivers using hand-held devices are four times more likely to be in a car accident than drivers paying attention to the road ahead.  Those who text and drive are an alarming 23 times more likely to get into an accident.  An experienced car accident attorney will examine the facts of your accident and uncover whether the at-fault driver was distracted.
2. Speeding—speeding contributes to a third of all car accidents nationwide, and those in and around the San Diego area know that speeding is a tremendous problem locally.  Our quick, convenience oriented culture has created a need for speed, but it has come at tremendous costs.  Your car accident attorney will investigate the speed at which the at-fault driver was going to determine if it played a role in your accident.
3. Drunk Driving—driving while under the influence is one of the most dangerous behaviors drivers can engage in today.  Nearly 1.5 million drivers are arrested each year on suspicion of drunk driving.  In San Diego County, nearly 15% of all fatal crashes are attributed to alcohol consumption.  It is considered a leading cause of death in car accidents in San Diego.  If you are in an accident involving a drunk driver, it is imperative you contact an experienced drunk driving accident attorney as soon as possible after the crash.  Crucial evidence can be lost if not immediately gathered.
4. Congested Public Roads—the often congested roadways in and around San Diego County contribute to a number of accidents.  Congestion leads to road rage, rapid lane changes, and the commingling of many cars, trucks, SUVS, tractor trailers, and motorcycles.
5. Poor Driving Conditions—every year, hundreds of car accidents are caused by irresponsible drivers who fail to take adequate precautions during rainy weather.  Severe weather conditions make it difficult to drive, but do not excuse negligent behavior.  Rain reduces a car’s tire traction, causing skidding or hydroplaning.  Severe weather requires drivers slow down, use their headlights, and maintain a safe distance from one another.  When an accident occurs during inclement weather, seasoned car accident attorneys investigate the precautions, or lack thereof, taken by the at-fault driver.