5 Dangerous Causes of Long Island Auto Accidents

Car accidents are an unfortunately common occurrence here on Long Island – according to the NY Department of Motor Vehicles, more than 66,000 car accidents occurred in 2014 alone. These accidents range from minor fender benders to catastrophic head-on collisions, but all are capable of leaving people seriously injured in their wake – more than 62,000 in 2014. In this blog, our Long Island auto accident attorneys take a look at five of the most dangerous causes of these crashes.

1. Drunk or Drugged Drivers

It has long been known that drinking and driving is a dangerous practice; New York was actually the first state to enact a DUI law back in 1910. Despite this common knowledge, many people continue to get behind the wheel after drinking or taking drugs. Illegal drugs aren’t the only medications to blame – many accidents are caused every year by individuals under the influence of prescription drugs.

2. Distracted Driving

Drunk driving is still a major issue in the U.S. and New York, but distracted driving is quickly becoming the new poster child for dangerous driving habits. This encompasses everything from texting while driving, to turning your attention to kids in the backseat. Any activity which takes your eyes, hands, or concentration off the road can lead to a major accident.

3. Improper Vehicle Maintenance

If an individual fails to properly maintain their car’s safety features, they could be liable for any accidents that ensue – even if they are not directly their fault. You should always make sure your brakes, tires, lights, and other critical safety features are in full working order before driving your car.

4. Speeding or Reckless Driving

Speeding excessively is just one of many different reckless driving behaviors people engage in every day. Behaviors like running red lights, changing lanes without looking, or otherwise driving in an aggressive manner can cause some of the most dangerous and deadly auto accidents in Long Island.

5. Snow & Ice

This is a common cause of car accidents this time of year, as the snow and ice begins to build up on our roads. While some snow-related accidents are truly unavoidable, many others are caused by people going too fast for the current conditions, or driving on bald tires. While it’s always important to drive with caution, this is doubly true when road conditions are poor.

Have you been injured on Long Island or in the surrounding communities? Call our firm today at (631) 925-2117 to learn how we can help.