Hundreds of thousands of Florida residents are involved in car accidents each year. Sadly, some collisions result in fatalities. A recent study using data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently found the most common charges drivers faced after accidents resulting in fatalities.
Reckless driving
According to data from 2012 to 2021, the leading charge given to drivers after motor vehicle accidents resulting in fatalities was reckless driving. Reckless driving can be one or a combination of dangerous behaviors while operating an automobile. Reckless or careless driving can include speeding, following other drivers too closely or running traffic lights.
License-related violations
Not everyone driving a vehicle in public is doing this activity legally. This same study reported that drivers with license violations were the second leading cause of fatal motor vehicle accidents. A few examples of license-related violations can include driving without a license or an expired driver’s license.
Driving while impaired
As you likely know, drugs and alcohol impair your ability to drive properly. So, it should come as no surprise that the third most common charge issued to drivers after fatal crashes was driving while impaired (DWI) or driving under the influence (DUI). While the majority of these accidents involved alcohol-related intoxication, anything from cocaine to prescription medication may also impair someone’s ability to drive.
It’s sometimes impossible to avoid vehicle accidents. However, knowing what often causes the most dangerous crashes is helpful information. If you notice someone driving recklessly, stay a safe distance away and contact the authorities when it’s safe to do so. Reporting a reckless driver helps protect you, other drivers and the person driving dangerously.