Accidents are unfortunate and unforeseeable occurrences.
Their aftermath is normally not pleasing, and instead, they cause pain and long-term consequences. The scope of accident occurrences has been increasing over time. Traditionally, people were mainly facing accidents in the kitchen, garden, and around the household. With the advancement in technology and the creation of new inventions, the scope increased to industrial accidents, medical accidents, and car accidents among others.
In this article, we will be looking at the common types of accidents, and then narrow down to car accidents which are among the major causes of death in the world today.
The common types of accidents
Accidents vary depending on where they have occurred. Outlined below are the most common types;
- Intersection accidents
- Slips and trips
- Hospital accidents Collision
- Traffic collision
- Child accident Falls
- Repetitive strain injury
- Clinical negligence
- Construction accidents
- Cuts Poisoning Sideswipe
- Workplace hazard Accidents
- Abroad Back injuries
- Traumatic brain injury Chest injuries
- Falling objects
- Motorcycle accidents
- Work accident
- Accidents involving animals
- Backing collision
- Bicycle accidents
In our discussion, we will examine motor vehicle accidents.
The origin and scope of motor vehicle accidents
Motor vehicles have been in existence since the time memorial. The traditional ones were quite expensive and few, hence were owned by people of the rich class. As time went by, many manufacturers opted for mass production of motor vehicles which were cheaper, and easily accessible by people of all classes.
That meant that the strict compliance that was there originally was relaxed, and now everyone irrespective of their qualification could own one. That led to the occurrence of many accidents on the roads.
What are the sources of motor vehicle accidents?
Several proponents have come up with different theories on why there is a rising number of motor vehicle accidents in the world. while they have not yet come up with a standard reason. Some of the major causes that they have noted include;
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Non-compliance with the traffic laws
Most motor vehicle drivers do not comply with traffic laws, which results in them getting into accidents. While the main idea behind the creation of the laws was to govern the conduct of motor vehicles on roads, drivers argue that the laws put in place are not practical.
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Drunk-driving
Most jurisdictions have strict laws that govern the use of roads. An example of the law is the law against drunk driving which from experience, mostly applies to cars and buses. Knowing very well that alcohol impairs their vision, motor vehicle users still go ahead and use it while driving, which results in accidents.
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Speeding
The standard practice is that motor vehicles should maintain the required speed when on busy roads. However, despite the regulation on the speed limit, most drivers still use very high speed which at times can cause accidents. Their argument behind overspeeding is that they try to save time and resources, and as genuine as it sounds, it risks the lives of people.
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Unforeseeable events
These are events that happen which are beyond our human control. They include snow, fog, and mist among other events. The events can disrupt the visibility of vehicles on the road, which can lead to them causing accidents.
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Manufacturing defects
Manufacturers have the sole responsibility of manufacturing vehicles that are fully functional. Motor vehicles that are manufactured with defects such as an overheating engine, brake fluids, and leaks are likely to have operational problems are likely to cause accidents on busy roads.
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Maintenance and service
It is common practice that every operational instrument should be maintained and serviced after a certain period of use. This applies to motor vehicles as well. Lack of proper maintenance and servicing of motor vehicles can result in them developing defects, which can contribute to accidents.
Safety measures for motor vehicle users
Considering the intensity of harm caused by accidents that involve motor vehicles, various steps have to be taken to ensure the safety of its users. Some of the measures that they can take include;
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Safety measures training
This involves teaching the owners and users the basic principles of operating motor vehicles. After successfully undergoing the training, individuals will be confident enough to drive their motor vehicles on busy roads without causing accidents.
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Licensing
This is a form of permit given to motor vehicle drivers to allow them to drive their vehicles efficiently on busy roads. By acquiring a license, it will be proof of their mastery of skills and all the laws about the use of roads.
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Regular maintenance
Motor vehicle users should have their automobiles checked regularly to avoid failures and defects.
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Wear protective gears
This involves putting on seatbelts and ensuring that the airbags are fully functional. This will prevent severe injuries in case of a crash.
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Avoid drunk riding
Taking alcohol affects a person’s ability to think clearly. It is therefore a common practice among drivers, that they should avoid anything to do with drunk driving.
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Avoid over-speeding
All motor vehicles should also strive to maintain the speed limit recommended by the authorities to prevent the occurrence of accidents.
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Due diligence
This entails the process of investigating the condition of the vehicle before purchasing it. This will ensure that you purchase a motor vehicle that is free of defects.
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Avoid riding when the weather conditions are not friendly
Anytime you notice that the weather conditions are not that friendly, be aware that vision on the road can likely impaired. Therefore, avoid driving until the weather conditions are normal.
Steps to take when involved in an accident
The steps that you take when involved in an accident will greatly determine if you will get healed, and acquire the damages for pain and loss incurred. Some of the most important steps that you should are;
- First aid services
- Dial 911 for medical emergency services and to report the incident
- Collect as much information as you can on the accident
- Obtain physical evidence such as pieces of glass, and blood-stained clothes among others
- Report the incident to the insurance company for compensation purposes
- Appoint a legal representative to represent you in court
Recommendations
As a way of regulating the rising number of motor vehicle accidents, the government can take the following measures;
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Strengthening the current regulatory framework on traffic laws
The regulatory bodies can do this by creating enforcement methods for existing laws on traffic. This will obligate all road users to comply without fail.
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Educating the masses
The regulatory bodies can conduct education programs to help people familiarize themselves with the laws governing traffic, and why they need to follow those laws religiously.
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Tough disciplinary measures
As a way of mitigating the accident, the government can come up with tough disciplinary actions for all motor vehicle users. This will enable them to strictly comply with all the regulations put in place regarding the use of roads.
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Improvement of infrastructure
Through the development of the roads and other infrastructure, the government will have reduced motor vehicle accidents by a large percentage.
Conclusion
Motor vehicle accidents are becoming a rising concern daily. Therefore, we need to take the necessary measures to prevent further injuries and deaths on our roads. No one deserves to die a wrongful death!