Car accidents continue to be one of the most common causes of accidental deaths in the United States. In Redondo Beach, CA, most of the fatal car accidents that occur in the area happen for the same reasons they do everywhere else. If you drive in Redondo Beach, CA, you have a responsibility to abide by posted traffic signals and operate your vehicle as safely as possible. Unfortunately, not all drivers uphold this duty of care and end up causing fatal accidents.
There were four fatal car accidents in Redondo Beach in 2016. While this may seem like a relatively low number, it’s important to know why these accidents happen and the risk factors that could lead to a serious accident.
Drunk Driving
One of the most common causes of fatal car accidents in Redondo Beach and throughout California is drunk driving. Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol is extremely dangerous and prone to causing fatal accidents for several reasons. First, drunk drivers typically drive much faster than sober drivers in the surrounding area, so any accidents that occur will happen at a higher speed. Second, alcohol significantly impairs reaction time and judgment. Drunk drivers often engage in risky maneuvers and do not have the coordination to perform them successfully, ultimately causing serious accidents.
Drunk driving can not only lead to civil liability on the impaired driver if an accident results in another driver’s death or the death of a pedestrian or bystander. DUI is illegal in California, and offenders face criminal prosecution as well. Penalties for DUI can include fines, jail time, driver’s license suspension, and mandatory counseling, all of which increase with multiple offenses.
Distracted Driving
California has enacted strict laws concerning the use of smartphones and other mobile devices while behind the wheel. The beginning of the cell phone ear saw a massive uptick in serious motor vehicle accidents due to drivers being distracted by their phones. Since the modern world is so reliant on digital communication, many Californians rely on their mobile devices for work. However, it is illegal to use a cell phone without some sort of hands-free system installed in the vehicle. Cell phone use remains one of the most common causes of distracted driving accidents.
Distracted driving does not just apply to driving while using a cell phone, however. “Distracted driving” refers to anything that draws the driver’s attention away from driving, their hands from the vehicle’s controls, or their eyes off of the road.
Speeding
Driving can be very fun, but it is also inherently dangerous, and the danger increases at higher speeds. Unfortunately, drivers who choose to speed put themselves and others nearby at grave risk. Even experienced drivers may have trouble handling their vehicles at higher speeds. They may encounter a road with poor visibility and fail to stop in time to avoid hitting a pedestrian who is suddenly in their path. Drivers who speed can also cause serious accidents when they suddenly swerve or turn at high speeds.
These are just three examples of the most common causes of fatal car accidents in Redondo Beach and throughout the United States. If you have legal questions about a recent fatal car, motorcycle or truck accident in Redondo Beach, contact McLachlan Law, APC today to schedule a consultation with an experienced Redondo Beach car accident attorney.