There is a nearly endless list of driving mistakes that could potentially lead to a car accident. They include things like:
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Texting and driving
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Breaking the speed limit
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Tailgating
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Driving under the influence
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Driving too fast for the weather conditions
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Making reckless or aggressive passes
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Failing to yield the right of way at an intersection
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Not maintaining the car’s crucial systems, like the brakes
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Following an outdated GPS
Many specific accidents will involve multiple factors at once, such as a distracted driver who runs a stop sign or failures to yield the right of way at a yield sign.
But one important thing to keep in mind is that not all drivers have the same risk of making these mistakes. For instance, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that one of the main factors in teenage accidents is just the inexperience of the young drivers behind the wheel.
Higher fatal accident rates
The result of this inexperience is fairly clear. Teenagers have the highest fatal accident rate of any age group.
This is not to say that they are purposely driving in a negligent or reckless manner, although that does happen in some cases. But they may simply not have the experience to recognize a safe following distance, for example, or to fully comprehend the risks of distracted driving or even impaired driving.
You have to share the road with other drivers every day, so there is always a chance you could be involved in an accident, even if you drive safely yourself. If you suffer injuries, be sure you know how to seek financial compensation for medical bills and related costs.