5 Common Causes of Auto Accidents and How To Avoid Them

Tony Mers • January 12, 2023
5 Common Causes of Auto Accidents and How To Avoid Them

As most people go about their daily lives, one thing is a consistent factor that they cannot avoid: driving. Traffic increases as populations grow, driving up the potential for accidents. Here are five common causes of auto accidents and how to avoid them so you can steer clear of any accident, however large or small.

Distractions Everywhere You Look

A cardinal rule when driving is always keep your eyes on the road. However, this is often easier said than done. Driving comes with challenges you must overcome that deal with other drivers and distractions. Fortunately, driving school prepares future drivers for these types of situations.

Drinking Is Never Acceptable

One of the most common problems that occurs on the road is driving under the influence. Whether it’s a cocktail after work with your boss or a beer for lunch, mistakes happen under the influence of alcohol. It doesn’t matter how little or much you have had.

It’s never a good idea to get behind the wheel of a vehicle after drinking; you endanger your safety and that of others on the road. You can avoid a trip to the hospital or auto mechanic by sobering up before driving. In the event of an accident, many professional body shops in Chicago can help you with auto repairs.

Don’t Even Think About Driving Drowsy

Much like avoiding drinking and driving, you should take a break from driving if you’re feeling tired. Find a place to rest so you don’t fall asleep behind the wheel, whether it’s a parking lot or a rest stop. What could seem like two seconds could be a whole minute or just enough time for you to get into a fatal accident, harming yourself or someone else.

Always Plan for Bad Weather

You can’t always avoid getting stuck in inclement weather conditions, but you can plan ahead. Always check your local and national weather forecasts before making any trips or plans to drive. This will give you a heads-up on the conditions, and you’ll be safe on the road.

Dismissing the Law While Driving

You’ve probably encountered a careless driver, or maybe you’ve been that person. No matter who is doing it, breaking the law is perilous across the board. When people fail to follow traffic laws, more accidents happen due to the confusion and frustration that builds from illegal driving habits. Make sure you’re signaling your turns, stopping at lights and signs when you’re meant to, and following any signage that directs you on the road.

These are the five common causes of auto accidents and how to avoid them while driving. Ensure you’re following the rules and remembering this list to help you avoid any accidents.

The Difference Between Cosmetic and Structural Bumper Damage
By River North Collision Repair February 11, 2026
Understand the difference between cosmetic and structural bumper damage, Learn how each affects safety and cost, and when you need a professional inspection.
Why Chicago Drivers Need Paint Protection Year-Round
By River North Collision Repair February 10, 2026
Chicago’s harsh weather ruins car exteriors. Learn why professional paint protection at River North Collision Repair keeps your vehicle rust-free and shiny.
January 30, 2026
It is an awful feeling when you walk out to your car after a long day and see a small dent on your passenger door. While it may appear to be just a cosmetic issue, you should still get it fixed, because ignoring small dents can lead to bigger problems for your vehicle.  Don’t let small dents on your car go untreated; let's talk about why you need to tackle these issues ASAP. Rust Loves Chicago Winters We all know the drill here in the Windy City. We have beautiful summers, sure, but we also pay the price with brutal winters. And what comes with winter? Salt. Tons of it. Your car’s paint job acts as a suit of armor protecting the metal body underneath. Even a minor dent often comes with microscopic cracks in the paint—sometimes too small to see with the naked eye. Once that seal is broken, moisture and road salt sneak in. They settle against the bare metal and start a chemical party you definitely don’t want to host. Oxidation begins immediately. By the time you notice bubbling paint or that tell-tale orange stain a few months later, the rust has already been eating away at your door panel from the inside out. Resale Value Takes a Nosedive For many people, maintaining their car is a valuable part of purchasing a new vehicle. When that day comes, curb appeal is everything. Used car buyers (and dealership appraisers) will judge your car by its exterior appearance. If they see a vehicle riddled with door dings, bumper scrapes, and ignored scratches, they see a car that wasn't cared for. They assume that if you didn't care enough to fix the outside, you probably didn't care about the rest of it either. It lowers the perceived value instantly. Maintaining your car’s body and its paint is an investment in your future trade-in value. Paint Damage Spreads Like a Virus When a dent or scrape compromises the integrity of the paint, the surrounding paint loses its grip. High-pressure car washes, wind, and temperature fluctuations cause the paint to flake away from the initial injury site. A scratch the size of a quarter can grow into a patch the size of a softball over a couple of seasons. It’s Easier (and Cheaper) Than You Think Here is the good news: fixing these things early is surprisingly affordable. Modern body shop technology is amazing. For many small dings where the paint isn't cracked, we can use techniques that massage the metal back into place without spraying a drop of paint. River North Collision Repair offers paintless dent repair in Chicago to fix minor dents. Regardless of what nicked your door, we can help remove the dents and maintain a seamless look for your vehicle. Don’t Wait for Problems Don't let minor dents turn into a big nightmare. Save your future self the headache (and the cash). Swing by River North Collision Repair for your quick and easy repairs. Because driving a car you’re proud of? That’s a feeling you can’t put a price on.
The Most Overlooked Damage After Minor Car Accidents
By River North Collision Repair January 20, 2026
Think that minor bumper scuffs are harmless? Think again. Ignoring minor damage can lead to problems for your vehicle. Avoid the hassle and get it fixed.
3 Signs Your Bumper Needs Professional Repair
January 9, 2026
Is your car's bumper cracked, dented, or misaligned? Learn the three signs that indicate you need a professional repair to ensure your safety.
How Car Scratch Depth Determines the Right Fix
By River North Collision Repair December 31, 2025
Learn to assess car scratch depth with the fingernail test and choose the most cost-effective repair method for clear coat, paint, or deep scratches.
What To Do Immediately After a Car Accident
By River North Collision Repair December 30, 2025
If you get in a car accident, follow these essential steps to react to the situation, protect yourself legally and financially, and quickly repair your vehicle.
How Effective Are Automatic Dent Pullers? Here's the Truth
By River North Collision Repair November 26, 2025
Wondering if automatic dent pullers really work? Get honest answers about when they're effective and when you need professional dent repair instead.
Fix Scratches in Your Plastic Bumper: A Quick Guide
By River North Collision Repair October 13, 2025
Got an annoying scratch on your car's bumper? Discover how to repair minor and major plastic bumper scratches with this straightforward guide.
4 Effective Ways To Fix Peeling Paint on Your Car
September 26, 2025
Discover four effective methods to fix peeling car paint, from DIY touch-ups to professional repairs. Save money and restore your vehicle’s appearance today.