It happens in a heartbeat. The screech of tires, the crunch of metal—a car accident can turn a normal day into a nightmare in the blink of an eye. In the aftermath, as you deal with the shock, the pain, and the mounting bills, it’s natural to ask: why did this happen? Understanding the common causes of car accidents in Wisconsin is the first step toward making sense of the chaos and seeking the justice you deserve.
If you are reading this, you or someone you care about is likely grappling with the consequences of a crash. You’re probably feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about the future. Please know that these feelings are valid. Let’s walk through the most frequent causes of car accidents, so you can have a clearer picture of what may have led to your situation.
The Root of Most Collisions: Driver Behavior
While factors like weather and road conditions can play a role, the vast majority of car accidents are caused by some form of human error. Here are the most common and dangerous behaviors we see on Wisconsin roads:
1. The #1 Culprit: Distracted Driving
In our hyper-connected world, distracted driving has become a full-blown epidemic. It’s more than just texting. Any activity that takes a driver’s eyes off the road, hands off the wheel, or mind off the task of driving is a distraction. This includes:
•Talking on the phone (even hands-free)
•Adjusting the GPS or radio
•Eating or drinking
•Dealing with passengers or pets
It only takes a few seconds of inattention to cause a life-altering crash.
2. A Need for Speed: Exceeding the Speed Limit
Speeding is one of the oldest and most persistent causes of car accidents. The faster a vehicle is going, the longer it takes to stop and the more severe the impact will be. Driving too fast for conditions—such as during rain, snow, or fog—is just as dangerous as exceeding the posted speed limit.
3. A Dangerous Gamble: Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
Despite decades of public awareness campaigns, drunk and drugged driving remains a serious problem in Wisconsin. Alcohol and drugs impair a driver’s judgment, coordination, and reaction time, making them a menace to everyone on the road. A DUI-related crash is not an “accident”—it is a preventable act of negligence.
4. Aggressive and Reckless Driving
Some drivers treat the road like their personal racetrack. Aggressive driving behaviors that frequently lead to accidents include:
•Tailgating: Following another vehicle too closely, leaving no room to stop.
•Unsafe Lane Changes: Weaving in and out of traffic without signaling.
•Running Red Lights and Stop Signs: Disregarding traffic signals is a common cause of devastating T-bone collisions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How can you prove the other driver was distracted?
A: Proving distracted driving can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. We can subpoena the other driver’s cell phone records to see if they were texting, talking, or using data at the time of the crash. Witness statements describing the driver’s behavior can also be very powerful.
Q: What if the weather was bad? Does that mean no one is at fault?
A: No. Drivers have a legal duty to adjust their driving for the conditions. If the roads are slick with ice or rain, a driver is expected to slow down and increase their following distance. Blaming the weather is often an attempt to excuse negligent driving.
Q: The other driver was ticketed at the scene. Does that automatically mean I win my case?
A: A traffic ticket is strong evidence of the other driver’s fault, but it does not guarantee a win. The insurance company may still try to argue that you were partially at fault to reduce the amount they have to pay. The ticket is a great starting point, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle.
You Deserve Answers and Accountability
Understanding what caused your accident is about more than just satisfying your curiosity. It’s about holding the responsible party accountable and securing the financial resources you need to rebuild your life. You do not have to go through this process alone.
At Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, our job is to investigate the cause of your crash and fight for the justice you deserve. To learn more, please visit our homepage or our main car accident service page. When you’re ready to talk, please contact us at (608) 784-4370 for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us help you move forward.