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 5 Common Causes of Automobile Accidents To Know and Avoid 

Robert Stahle • September 13, 2019
A person is sitting in a car using a cell phone

An estimated 6 million accidents will occur on the roadways in the United States this year. Automobile accidents happen more frequently than any of us want to admit, and what makes it worse is that the majority of these accidents are caused by driver error.

Most accidents are relatively minor and result in little injury and damage, but each situation that leads to an accident carries the potential to turn into a devastating event. The number one way to avoid becoming an accident statistic is to recognize the most common causes and do your part in safely operating your vehicle on the road.


5 Common Causes of Automobile Accidents


Distracted Driving

Distracted driving has always been a threat to safety on the road. However, during the last decade it has become an even bigger problem, to the point that distracted driving is blamed for being the leading cause of all automobile accidents. When you’re behind the wheel of a car, remember to keep your focus on the road. Avoid distracting activities like texting, talking on the phone, playing with the music system, or tending to small children in the back seat.


Speeding

It can be tempting to push the speed limit, even if it’s just a little bit over. The thing to remember is that posted speed limits are there for a reason – to keep everyone safe. Going even a little over the speed limit means you reduce your response time and put other drivers at risk. Be mindful of safety, and the law, by driving at or just below posted speed limits.


Drunk Driving

Drunk driving not only contributes to a significant number of accidents each year, it also plays a role in many that are fatal. Avoiding this danger is easy. Don’t drink and drive and be proactive in stopping someone else who has too much to drink from getting behind the wheel.


Not Taking Weather Conditions Into Consideration

In Iowa and Nebraska, the weather can change at the drop of a dime, and at times the changes can be extreme. Heavy rainfall makes for poor visibility and slippery roads. Winter comes along with snow and ice that present their own challenges to safe driving. When you’re driving in less than perfect weather conditions, remember that your safe actions aren’t just about how well you can handle the road conditions but also being prepared to respond to other drivers.


Road Conditions

Road conditions can cause a driver to swerve and stray off course. Potholes, chunks of missing concrete, and road construction all present unique challenges to staying safe on the road. Always follow the posted speed limit, especially in construction zones. If it’s dark, or you’re on an unfamiliar road, slow down to give yourself time to respond reasonably to unknown road conditions.


Next Step If You’ve Been Involved In an Automobile Accident

Even when you’ve taken every step to be safe on the road, accidents can still happen. When they do, it’s important to prioritize yourself by seeking immediate medical attention. The next step is to contact an automobile accident attorney who can determine if you might be entitled to damages and help you deal with insurance companies. Fitch & Stahle Law Office has the automobile accident attorney you need in the Siouxland area. Reach out to us to discuss your case today.

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Injured in a Car Accident in Nebraska or Iowa?

By Robert Stahle • October 22, 2025
A car accident can change your life in a matter of seconds. One moment you’re commuting or running errands, and the next, you’re facing a wrecked vehicle, physical pain, and a growing stack of medical bills. It’s stressful, overwhelming, and often confusing—especially when you’re not sure what to do next. At Fitch & Stahle Law Firm , we help car accident victims in South Sioux City , Sioux City , and across Nebraska and Iowa understand their rights and recover the compensation they deserve. In this post, we’ll walk you through the critical steps to take after a crash—and how to protect your health, finances, and legal claim. Step 1: Prioritize Your Safety and Health Immediately after a crash, your safety comes first. If possible: Move your vehicle out of traffic Check yourself and others for injuries Call 911 for medical help and law enforcement Even if you don’t feel seriously hurt, get evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible. Many injuries—like whiplash, concussions, or internal trauma—don’t show symptoms right away. A prompt medical exam not only protects your health, it also documents your injuries for your insurance claim. Step 2: Call the Police and File an Accident Report In both Nebraska and Iowa , it’s important to report any crash involving: Injury or death Property damage over $1,000 A hit-and-run or uninsured driver The responding officer will create a police report , which includes key facts like: Date, time, and location of the accident Statements from drivers and witnesses Diagrams or photos of the scene Initial assessment of fault This report becomes vital evidence in your personal injury claim. Be honest and factual—but avoid admitting fault or guessing what happened. Step 3: Gather Evidence at the Scene (If You Can) If you are physically able and it’s safe to do so, collect the following: Photos of vehicle damage, injuries, skid marks, and surroundings Driver’s license, insurance, and contact info of all involved Contact info for witnesses Notes about the weather, road conditions, and what you recall If you’re unable to collect this yourself, Fitch & Stahle Law Firm may be able to retrieve surveillance footage, witness statements, or crash data later—but the more you gather early, the better. Step 4: Notify Your Insurance Company Most policies require you to notify your insurer after a crash. However, you do not need to give a recorded statement , especially before speaking to a lawyer. Stick to the basics: Where and when the crash happened Who was involved That you’re seeking medical treatment Avoid discussing fault, injuries, or potential settlement values. Insurance companies often use early statements to downplay your claim later. Step 5: Call a Car Accident Lawyer—Before You Talk to the Other Driver’s Insurance The at-fault driver’s insurance company may reach out soon after the crash. They might offer a quick settlement or ask for a recorded interview. Don’t be fooled— their goal is to protect their bottom line, not your recovery . When you call Fitch & Stahle Law Firm , we: Handle all communication with insurance companies Protect you from saying something that hurts your case Calculate the real value of your damages Make sure you aren’t pressured into a lowball settlement We offer free consultations and don’t charge legal fees unless we win your case. Step 6: Keep Track of Everything Start a folder or digital log for your car accident claim. Include: Medical bills and records Receipts for prescriptions or medical equipment Notes from doctor visits Pay stubs showing missed work A journal of your pain levels, emotional struggles, or daily challenges This documentation helps prove pain and suffering , lost income , and the long-term impact of your injury. What Compensation Can You Recover? Depending on the circumstances, you may be entitled to compensation for: Emergency room care and medical treatment Physical therapy and future healthcare needs Vehicle repairs or total loss Lost wages or reduced earning capacity Pain and suffering Emotional distress Permanent disability or disfigurement If the at-fault driver was reckless—such as driving drunk or texting behind the wheel—you may also qualify for punitive damages . At Fitch & Stahle , we fight for the maximum compensation available under Nebraska or Iowa law. How Long Do I Have to File a Claim? The legal deadline to file a car accident lawsuit (called the statute of limitations ) is: 4 years in Nebraska 2 years in Iowa However, it’s best to act early. Delays in filing can lead to lost evidence, unclear medical records, and a weaker case overall. Why Choose Fitch & Stahle Law Firm? We’ve spent years helping injured drivers in the Siouxland region get justice after devastating car accidents. Here’s why clients trust us: ✅ Local Experience : Based in South Sioux City , we know the roads, courts, and insurers in both Nebraska and Iowa. ✅ Full-Service Representation : From crash investigation to courtroom litigation, we handle every step. ✅ Licensed in NE & IA : Whether your accident happened on I-29, Highway 77, or in town, we’ve got you covered. ✅ No Upfront Fees : You pay nothing unless we win your case. Don’t Go Through This Alone—We’re Here to Help If you were injured in a car accident in South Sioux City , Sioux City , or anywhere in Northeast Nebraska or Northwest Iowa , don’t wait to protect your rights. The sooner you act, the stronger your claim. 📞 Call us now at 402-494-3012 🌐 Schedule your free consultation at fitch-stahlelaw.com 📍 Visit us at our South Sioux City office At Fitch & Stahle Law Firm , we fight for car accident victims every day—and we’re ready to fight for you.