While the open road is often a symbol of freedom, it is also a dangerous place. Unpredictable perils can cause accidents at any time. However, some scenarios are more common than others, and most accidents are caused by negligent drivers who don’t exercise caution behind the wheel. Below are some of the most common reasons you might need to hire an auto accident attorney.

What Are the Most Common Reasons for Auto Accidents?

1. Distracted Drivers

Every year, distracted drivers cause tens of thousands of accidents—many of which cause serious injuries. Cellphones and tablets have only worsened this problem in recent years. Distractions can take a variety of forms, but text messaging and using the phone are the most common. Many accidents can also be traced to seemingly simple activities, like eating or changing the radio station.

2. Intoxicated Drivers

Even relatively small amounts of alcohol can impair a driver’s judgment and slow their reflexes enough to cause an accident. While over a million people are arrested every year for driving under the influence, this number accounts for a tiny percentage of people who drink and drive.

If you’ve been injured by a drunk driver, your auto accident attorney should be able to hold them accountable for your losses. Getting a copy of the police report at the scene will help your lawyer build the strongest case possible.

3. Poor Weather

Not all accidents can be directly traced to driver negligence. For instance, heavy rain or snow reduces visibility and decreases road traction, increasing the odds that a person will lose control of their vehicle or fail to spot another car in time.

However, drivers have a legal obligation to operate their vehicles safely, which means adjusting their behavior to account for the weather. If a motorist hydroplanes on a wet highway and strikes your vehicle because they were going too fast, your auto accident attorney may still be able to file a claim.

4. Speeding

Exceeding the speed limit by just a few miles per hour dramatically increases the chances of an accident. Not only does speeding make a vehicle more difficult to control, but it also makes it harder for other drivers to respond appropriately. In fact, speeding is a factor in over 25% of all fatal car accidents, and the action plays a role in thousands of nonfatal accidents every year.

If you’ve been injured by a negligent driver, the legal team at Seiler & Parker PC LLO in Hastings, NE, will provide the aggressive, focus-driven representation you need. They’ve been serving accident victims throughout the Tri-City area since 1952. These attorneys are deeply committed to the success of every client. Visit the website for more on their personal injury services, and call (402) 463-3125 to speak with an auto accident attorney about your options.