When most drivers think about the dangers on the road, speeding and drunk driving are usually at the top of the list. But as any Ventura, CA car accident lawyer can tell you, the most common crashes often stem from much more subtle causes. At Cohen Injury Law Group, we’ve handled thousands of car accident claims, and time and again we see the same hidden hazards at play; ones most people don’t notice until it’s too late. Attorney Cohen, the founder of our firm, brings over 30 years of experience managing difficult injury cases, including serious vehicle collisions. With a career built on legal excellence and a strong academic foundation, he has earned national recognition across both the legal field and public media.
Everyday Distractions Behind the Wheel
It’s not just texting. Distraction comes in many forms—eating, fiddling with music controls, talking to passengers, or even daydreaming. These behaviors may seem harmless, but they significantly reduce your reaction time. It only takes a second of diverted attention to miss a red light or drift into another lane. In our experience, many drivers involved in “minor” crashes were simply not paying full attention, even if they never touched their phones.
We all develop driving habits, but familiarity with a route can make us too comfortable. Many accidents happen just minutes from home because people go into “auto-pilot” mode, tuning out their surroundings. Whether it’s rolling through stop signs or speeding up unconsciously on an empty stretch of road, these small choices can have major consequences. Staying mentally engaged, even on routine trips, is one of the most important safety strategies a driver can adopt.
Poor Weather Judgment
California might not get the harsh winters some states do, but sudden rainstorms, wet leaves, and fog can still turn roads dangerous. The problem isn’t always the weather, it’s how people react to it. Many drivers fail to slow down in wet conditions or follow other vehicles too closely, underestimating how much longer it takes to brake on slick pavement. These miscalculations often result in rear-end collisions or slide-offs that could have been avoided with just a little more caution.
Too Close, Too Fast, Too Late
Tailgating isn’t just aggressive, it’s dangerous. Even at slower speeds, not keeping a proper distance from the car in front limits your ability to avoid sudden stops. A general rule is to stay at least three seconds behind the car ahead, and more in poor weather. But in heavy traffic or when running late, many drivers creep closer without realizing how little room that leaves for error. A split-second brake check is all it takes to spark a chain-reaction crash.
Let’s Talk About What Comes Next Together
Our team of professionals understand that many accidents aren’t just bad luck, they’re entirely preventable. Cohen Injury Law Group, P.C. is committed to uncovering the truth behind each crash and helping clients recover what they’ve lost. If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t wait to get the guidance you need. Contact us to schedule a free consultation with an experienced professional who puts your recovery first.