One reason why we stress preventative maintenance here at Miller Brothers Auto Repair is that it helps keep your vehicle safe. For example, ignoring brake maintenance can open you up to the possibility of losing your brakes and causing an accident. Poor vehicle maintenance isn’t a top cause of automobile accidents, but it can make your automobile unsafe. Let’s talk about the top causes of automobile accidents below.
Distracted Driving
We talked a few blog posts back about distracted driving. The reason why we did this is that distracted driving is the number one cause of automobile accidents in the United States. It is so important that you avoid distractions when you are behind the wheel, including cell phones and noisy kids. Even looking in your rearview mirror for a few seconds to see what your children are doing can cause a rear-end collision.
Drunk Driving
Drunk driving or driving while under the influence of recreational drugs is also a common cause of accidents. You may think you’re okay after a couple of glasses of wine or a few beers, but you aren’t. It’s important that you never drive after you’ve consumed alcohol or taken recreational drugs. Call for an Uber, Lyft, cab, or designate a driver.
Speeding/Aggressiveness
Driving aggressively and speeding also causes accidents. Many drivers lose control of their automobiles and run into other cars, trucks, or utility vehicles. Speed limits are established based on driving tests that determine a road’s safety. Pay attention to speed limits and stay calm behind the wheel. Weaving through traffic or chasing someone down in road rage will cause an accident.
Inclement Weather
Inclement weather is also a common cause of automobile accidents. When the rainy season first starts, the water mixes with the oil on the road and creates slick roads. Ice can also make the roads slick. Even if you feel as if you’re in control of your automobile, slow down when it’s raining or snowing outside. You don’t want your tires to lose their grip on the road.
Running Traffic Signals
Finally, running through traffic signals and stop signs also causes accidents. Yellow does not mean go faster. Yellow means slow down because the light is about to turn red. Those who tempt fate often get it. Flying through a yellow or red light is opening up the door to an automobile accident.
Miller Brothers Auto Repair in Somerset, WI, wants you to be safe and happy on the road. One way we can help is by servicing and repairing your automobile. Call us today to schedule an appointment.