Salt Lake City, Utah, is one of the fastest-growing cities in the country. Unfortunately, our car accident lawyers see far too many claims from car accidents in the city. It is crucial to understand the leading causes of car accidents in Salt Lake City as it can help drivers and the authorities take measures to prevent them. The knowledge will make the streets safer and Salt Lake City a more attractive destination for visitors. The following are the leading causes of car accidents in Salt Lake City:
Speeding
Speeding was by far the most common cause of fatal car accidents in Salt Lake City as of 2020. Almost half of all fatal car accidents were caused by speeding from 2014 to 2020.
It is much more difficult to control a speeding vehicle than a slow one. Moreover, when vehicles moving at high speeds collide, the forces generated are too great for most vehicles and bodies to handle.
Speeding caused only fifteen percent of overall accidents, but its percentage of fatal accidents means it requires special attention.
Following Too Closely
The most common cause of overall accidents in Salt Lake City, Utah, is following too closely. It accounts for about a fifth of all accidents in the city.
Not leaving enough distance is not a primary cause of fatal car accidents, as it accounts for less than ten percent.
You should leave at least two car lengths of space between you and the vehicle ahead of you. Therefore, you can stop and avoid an accident even if you were driving fast.
Drivers Leaving Their Lane
Drivers can leave their lane for many reasons, including overtaking and negligent driving. Regardless, drivers leaving their lanes is a leading cause of car accidents in Salt Lake City.
Drivers leaving their lane were responsible for about twenty percent of fatal car accidents in the city. However, drivers leaving their lane caused only twelve percent of overall accidents.
Therefore, drivers should only leave their lane when it is safe to do so or risk a fatal accident.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving accounts for about eleven percent of all car accidents in Salt Lake City. On the other hand, it accounts for eighteen percent of fatal car accidents.
Distracted driving may involve cell phone use, loud music, or watching video screens. Distracted driving is challenging for authorities to deal with because careful driving is the only solution.
Call A Car Accident Lawyer
The four above are the leading causes of car accidents in Salt Lake City, Utah. Drivers should do their best to avoid them.
If you are involved, or injured, in a car accident in Salt Lake City, please contact one of our car accident lawyers for assistance.