The Consequences and Prevention of Negligence on the Road

Road safety is an urgent global issue that has not received the required attention due to other pressing global matters such as climate change, terrorism, and migration. Statistics by the World Health Organization show that approximately 1.19 million lives are lost due to traffic crashes every year. More than 50% of people who die in road accidents are from a vulnerable group of travelers, including motorcyclists, cyclists and pedestrians. 

From 20 to 50 millions of the accident victims suffer non-fatal injuries. Road accidents leave millions of people disabled every year. Spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries and loss of limbs lead to permanent disabilities. Orthopedic injuries like joint injuries or fractures result in long-term disability.          

A large proportion of road accidents occur due to negligence. Other causes of accidents include:

• Road design or conditions 
• Weather conditions 
• Driver errors
• Vehicle defects 
• Lack of experience
• Animals
• Fatigue and drowsiness 
• Medical emergencies

Understanding Negligent Driving

Negligent driving is the failure to drive with reasonable care. Negligence involves actions that can result in injury or harm to self or others. A driver shares the road with other motorists and pedestrians. A driver has a “duty of care.”

Examples of Road Negligence

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving accounts for 8% to 9% of the fatal collisions. Accidents due to distracted driving kill about 30,000 people every year in the United States. Cell phones are a major distraction, accounting for 12% of car accidents in the country. The following are the common causes of distracted driving:

• Cell phone usage        
• Conversation with passengers 
• Adjusting controls
• Eating and drinking
• Daydreaming
• Grooming
• Multitasking
• Emotional distraction
• External distraction  

DUI (Driving Under Influence)

Drugs or alcohol impair decision-making, reaction time, and attention. Braking, steering, speed control, emergency maneuvers and overall vehicle control become difficult as being under the influence reduces coordination. It reduces attentiveness, and the driver ignores other vehicles and traffic signs and signals. A driver under the influence is likely to exhibit risk-taking behavior due to overconfidence.     

Speeding

People usually violate speed limits because of time pressure, impatience, inattentiveness, overconfidence, thrill-seeking behavior, lack of awareness or peer influence.      

Failure to Yield

Failure to yield can create some unexpected situations that force other drivers to make rapid decisions. Failure to yield can cause:

• Sudden interruptions
• Increased stress levels
• Evasive maneuvers
• Disrupted traffic flow
• Loss of focus
• Road rage
• Frustration.        

Reckless Driving

Reckless driving is a behavior that does not regard traffic laws and public safety on the road. Some examples of reckless driving include:

• Tailgating
• Excessive speeding 
• Ignoring traffic signals 
• Cutting off other vehicles 
• Abruptly switching lanes
• Street racing 
• Illegal passing
• Reckless Maneuvers

Ignoring Traffic Signs and Signals

Traffic signs and signals are in place for safety, traffic control, and clarity and communication. Drivers are expected to exhibit specific behavior on specific signs or signals. Ignoring traffic signs and signals can distract other drivers.        

Drowsy Driving or Fatigue

Extreme fatigue causes microsleep episodes. These episodes make it difficult to keep eyes open. Fatigue also causes physical discomfort, slowed reaction time, impaired decision making and decreased attention and focus.       

Lack of Vehicle Maintenance 

Brake failures, engine issues, and other mechanical failures require immediate attention, which can occupy the driver’s attention and cause distraction. Warning lights may activate due to ignored maintenance and distract the driver. The driver cannot see clearly due to poorly maintained mirrors, headlights, and windshield wipers.      

Lack of Experience 

High traffic, unfriendly weather and complex intersections can create unexpected, unfamiliar situations that an inexperienced driver cannot handle. Inexperienced drivers are likely to overreact. Unfamiliarity with vehicle control, lack of experience with defensive driving, peer influence, anxiety and nervousness, and inadequate hazard perception can lead to negligence on the road.  

Consequences of Negligence on Road

Legal Consequences

Negligent driving can lead to hefty fines and penalties. Severe negligent driving or repeated offenses can lead to suspension or revocation of license. Negligent driving puts public safety under threat. This can cause severe injuries and even death. There are legal repercussions, such as fines and imprisonment. There are financial implications, such as medical bills and vehicle repair costs. 

The victim’s family can hire a wrongful death attorney to file a wrongful death claim. A Boston car accident attorney supports the family through the pursuit of justice and compensation. The attorney navigates through wrongful death settlements in car accidents.     

Financial Consequences

Negligent driving offenses indicate high-risk behavior, which leads to increased insurance premiums. The victim can sue the driver to get compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage.      

Physical Consequences

Negligent driving can cause injuries to the driver, passengers and others on the road. Accidents can lead to permanent disabilities and even fatalities. Death leads to legal and financial repercussions.         

Emotional and Psychological Consequences

Accidents due to negligent driving can cause trauma, stress and post-traumatic stress disorder. Guilt and remorse can seriously affect mental health.    

Impact on Employment  

Driving is a part of professions such as sales and delivery. Suspension of the driver’s license after a road accident can lead to job loss. Finding employment may become difficult due to a history of traffic law violations or criminal record.      

Preventing Negligent Driving

Preventing negligent driving can save many lives. Reducing the occurrence of negligent driving requires education, awareness, and adherence to rules and laws. The following strategies can prevent negligent driving:  

• Education and awareness programs such as driver education courses and public awareness campaigns
• Strict law enforcement, such as stricter penalties for violations and increased police presence
• Use of technology such as speed cameras and vehicle safety features 
• Promoting safe driving practices, such as avoiding distractions 
• Regular vehicle maintenance, such as educating drivers on vehicle maintenance and routine inspection 
• Encouraging defensive driver behavior
• Improving road infrastructure, such as adequate lighting and better road design 
• Encouraging self-assessment

Conclusion 

The government is responsible for providing safe roads. However, it is the responsibility of drivers, pedestrians and cyclists to adhere to traffic laws and safe driving practices. Preventing negligent driving can prevent injuries, disabilities and even death. It requires education and awareness.