By Tedia Gamino

Each year more than 32,000 people are killed and 2 million are injured in motor vehicle crashes, according to the CDC. In fact, every day 29 Americans die at the hands of drivers who are charged for DUI.

Avoid these five traffic violations that typically lead to car accidents:

  1. Distracted driving
  2. Speeding
  3. Road rage
  4. Running a red light
  5. OWI, DWI, DUI

Here’s a closer look at each violation.

#1. Distracted Driving

When driving, you should give the road and surroundings your undivided attention. Distracted driving is considered one of the top causes of car accidents in the U.S. Engaging in activities like texting, talking on the phone, eating, and grooming while you’re driving takes your focus away from the highway, and can lead to serious accidents.

#2. Speeding

You may speed for many reasons. You might be late for work or an appointment, trying to keep up with traffic, or even experiencing a personal emergency. Whatever the reason, speeding not only endangers your life, but the lives of others on the road.

Speeding in Wisconsin is on the rise. Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison saw an increase in speeding when pandemic shutdowns in early 2020 substantially reduced highway traffic. By mid-2021, though, road traffic had climbed back to levels before the pandemic—but the average vehicle speed did not throttle back.

#3. Road Rage

Road rage can involve criminal intimidation or violence on the highway. One’s anger toward another motorist might result in tailgating, weaving in and out of lanes and causing near-collisions, making rude gestures, or even competing for a space in a parking lot. Road rage only makes driving conditions more unsafe.

#4. Running a Red Light

Although you may be in a rush, or think you can zip through an intersection when the light has just turned red, running a red light can prove to be a fatal traffic violation. Many motorists are killed or maimed each year by drivers who don’t obey red lights. So whatever your reason, running the light just isn’t worth risking your life and those of other motorists and pedestrians.

#5. OWI, DWI, DUI

It’s always smart to avoid driving if you’ve been drinking. Even if you feel that you can get behind the wheel and safely drive home, or to another destination, driving after having even one drink is a bad idea because it can impair your judgement and ability to safely operate your vehicle. If a police officer stops you and determines that you’re impaired by alcohol, you could be arrested and prosecuted—no matter your blood alcohol content (BAC).

Do You Need to Talk to an Attorney About OWI, DWI, or DUI?

If you’ve been accused of OWI, DWI, or DUI, our team may be able to help you. Call our office at 414-383-6700 to schedule a consultation with an experienced Wisconsin drunk driving lawyer. We can answer your questions and give you the guidance you need.

By Attorney Tedia Gamino