It doesn’t matter where you live, how old you are, or how much experience you have behind the wheel. Even if you do everything the right way, even if you follow the rules of the road, you can still be involved in a motor vehicle accident.

It is important that you understand the most common causes of fatal motor vehicle accidents. This knowledge can come in handy every time you get behind the wheel.

For example, not adjusting to road conditions is a common cause of car accidents. During the winter months, for example, you could find yourself faced with snow, ice, and strong wind. If you don’t adjust for these conditions, you are improving the likelihood of being involved in an accident.

Another common cause of accidents is failure to keep in your lane of traffic. This has nothing to do with what is going on around you, and everything to do with the decisions you make. It is essential to remain in your lane at all times. If you neglect to do so, you could cause an accident with a vehicle in another lane.

You can only do so much to protect yourself as a driver. The reason for this is simple: You have to share the road with other people.

Knowing the most common causes of fatal motor vehicle accidents will help you make better decisions as a driver. It is important that you follow the rules of the road, while also being aware of what other drivers are doing. This type of approach will improve your overall level of safety.

Source: Business Insider, “This map shows what causes the most fatal car crashes in each US state,” accessed Jan. 12, 2016