As a towing and roadside assistance service in Virginia Beach, Green Light Towing Service has seen firsthand the devastating effects that accidents can have on our community.
We understand that accidents can happen to anyone, but by educating ourselves on the most common causes of crashes and taking proactive steps to avoid them, we can all do our part to make our roads safer.
With over 20 years of roadside assistance experience, here’s our top list of causes for the accidents we get called in to clean up.
#1 Distracted Driving
One of the most prevalent causes of accidents today is distracted driving. With the rise of smartphones and in-vehicle technology, it’s easier than ever to take your eyes off the road. However, even a momentary lapse in attention can have serious consequences.
According to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, distracted driving was a contributing factor in 22,918 crashes in Virginia in 2020 alone. To avoid becoming a statistic, it’s crucial to keep your focus on the task at hand and avoid distractions like texting, eating, or adjusting the radio while behind the wheel.
#2 Speeding
Another major contributor to accidents is speeding. When you’re in a hurry, it can be tempting to push the limits, but the faster you go, the less time you have to react to unexpected situations.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that speeding was a factor in 26% of all traffic fatalities in 2019. To stay safe, always obey posted speed limits and adjust your speed to account for weather and road conditions.
#3 Drunk Driving
Drunk driving is another leading cause of accidents, and it’s a problem that hits close to home here in Virginia Beach. According to a recent Virginia Beach Police Department report, there were 1,164 arrests for driving under the influence (DUI) in our city in 2021.
Drinking and driving is never worth the risk – not only do you put yourself in danger, but you also endanger the lives of everyone else on the road, and you may lose your license or worse.
If you do plan to drink, always designate a sober driver or use a ride-sharing service to get home safely.
#4 Reckless Driving
Reckless driving behaviors like tailgating, weaving through traffic, and running red lights are also major contributors to accidents. These actions not only increase your own risk of a crash but also put other drivers and pedestrians in harm’s way.
The Virginia DMV reports that aggressive driving was a factor in 1,981 crashes in 2020. To avoid these dangerous behaviors, always give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination, maintain a safe following distance, and obey all traffic signals and signs.
Need help 24/7 in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, or Chesapeake? Call Green Light Towing today for fast round-the-clock towing and roadside assistance…
#5 Fatigue
Fatigue is another often-overlooked cause of accidents. When you’re tired, your reaction time and judgment can be just as impaired as if you were under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
The NHTSA estimates that drowsy driving was responsible for 91,000 crashes in 2017. To stay alert behind the wheel, make sure you’re getting enough rest before driving, and take breaks on long trips to stretch and refresh yourself.
#6 Inclement Weather
Inclement weather can also contribute to accidents, especially here in Virginia Beach, where we experience everything from heavy rain to snow and ice. According to the Federal Highway Administration, nearly 21% of all vehicle crashes in the U.S. are weather-related.
When driving in adverse conditions, slow down, increase your following distance, and make sure your vehicle is equipped with appropriate tires and safety features.
#7 Vehicle Malfunctions
Vehicle malfunctions, such as brake failures or tire blowouts, can also lead to accidents. Regular maintenance and inspections can help catch potential issues before they become dangerous.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration provides a comprehensive list of vehicle safety recalls, so be sure to check if your vehicle has any outstanding recalls and get them addressed as soon as possible.
#8 Inexperience
Inexperience is another risk factor, particularly for younger drivers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that drivers aged 16-19 are nearly three times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash than drivers aged 20 and older.
If you’re a new driver or have a young driver in your family, consider enrolling in a defensive driving course to build skills and confidence behind the wheel.
#9 Road Hazards
Finally, road hazards like potholes, debris, and construction zones can also contribute to accidents. While these hazards may be beyond your control, you can minimize your risk by staying alert, maintaining a safe speed, and being prepared to react if necessary.
Encounter an unexpected hazard on the road? Be sure to report it to the appropriate authorities in Virginia so it can be addressed quickly.
Stay Safe on Virginia Beach Roads
At Green Light Towing Service, we’re committed to keeping Virginia Beach roads safe for everyone. While we’re always here to help if you find yourself in need of towing or roadside assistance, we believe that education and prevention are key to reducing accidents in our community. By understanding the most common causes of crashes and taking proactive steps to avoid them, we can all do our part to make our roads safer for ourselves, our families, and our neighbors.
If you do find yourself in an accident or in need of assistance, remember that Green Light Towing Service is just a phone call away. Our team of experienced professionals is available 24/7 to provide fast, reliable service when you need it most. Stay safe out there, Virginia Beach!
