Common Causes of Car Accidents in Shreveport

Car accidents are an unfortunate reality on the roads of Shreveport and across the state of Louisiana. Whether it’s a minor fender-bender or a life-altering collision, these incidents can lead to serious consequences including injury, financial strain, and emotional distress. 

Understanding the causes of car accidents can go a long way in helping drivers stay safe.

One of the leading causes of car accidents in Shreveport is distracted driving. Distractions can come in many forms—texting, using a GPS, changing the radio station, or even eating while behind the wheel. According to national traffic safety data, texting while driving is particularly dangerous, as it combines visual, manual, and cognitive distractions all at once. Even a few seconds of inattention can lead to a collision.

In Louisiana, it is illegal for drivers to use a handheld phone to text or post to social media while driving, yet this law is frequently ignored. Always keep your focus on the road—lives depend on it.

Speeding is another major contributor to auto accidents. Whether a driver is running late or simply ignoring posted speed limits, going too fast reduces the amount of time available to react to unexpected hazards and increases the severity of injuries when crashes do occur.

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs continues to be one of the most dangerous causes of car accidents. Impaired drivers have slower reaction times, poor judgment, and reduced coordination, making them a risk to everyone on the road.

Tailgating, weaving between lanes, running red lights, and refusing to yield are all examples of reckless or aggressive driving. These behaviors often stem from frustration, impatience, or a disregard for traffic laws and they’re especially dangerous on crowded roadways.

Aggressive drivers put everyone in harm’s way. If you see someone driving erratically, it’s best to keep your distance and report them if necessary.

While we can’t control the weather, we can control how we respond to it. Rain, fog, and even occasional icy roads can create hazardous conditions for drivers. Hydroplaning, reduced visibility, and slippery surfaces make accidents more likely during storms and wet weather.

Drivers should adjust their speed and increase their following distance when weather conditions are poor. Additionally, potholes, debris, and poorly marked lanes can also lead to crashes.

Drowsy driving is a serious and often overlooked issue. Fatigued drivers can experience slower reaction times, impaired judgment, and in extreme cases, fall asleep at the wheel. Shift workers, truck drivers, and those with sleep disorders are particularly vulnerable.

Driving while tired can be just as dangerous as driving drunk. If you’re feeling fatigued, it’s always better to pull over and rest or find an alternative way home.

From not using turn signals to ignoring stop signs, failure to follow basic traffic laws is a widespread cause of collisions. These simple violations might seem minor, but they can lead to serious consequences, especially at busy intersections or when visibility is low.

Staying vigilant and following the rules of the road is one of the easiest ways to prevent accidents.

Understanding the causes of car accidents can help you stay alert and prepared, but even the most cautious drivers can fall victim to someone else’s negligence. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Shreveport, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone.

Call Jack Bailey Law Corporation today to schedule a free consultation. Our experienced legal team is here to help you understand your rights, pursue compensation, and move forward with confidence.