10 Leading Causes of Car Accidents and How to Prevent Them

Over 38,000 people die in collisions on the nation’s roadways every year. Additionally, 4.4 million individuals sustain injuries requiring medical attention. Shockingly, car accidents are the leading cause of fatalities in people between the ages of 1 and 54 years old.

Tragically, the vast majority of these accidents are preventable. From driving under the influence of alcohol, illicit drugs, and certain medications to making unsafe lane changes, we highlight 10 of the biggest dangers faced by motorists on the roads today and the steps we can all take to mitigate these risks.

1. Swerving

Many accidents are caused by drivers swerving to avoid an obstacle in the road, be it a loose load that has fallen from the back of a truck, or an animal or person that has run out in front of them.

High winds or slick road surfaces can also cause drivers to swerve, with approximately 1,500 drivers involved in fatal crashes caused by swerving every year.

2. Reckless Driving

Aggressive driving can cause horrible accidents. It is important to remain calm at all times while behind the wheel.

Quite distinct from careless driving, reckless drivers demonstrate a flagrant disregard for the rules of the road, and everyone on it. Reckless driving causes approximately 3.5% of fatal car accidents.

3. Ignoring Traffic Signs and Signals

When motorists ignore stop signs, serious car accidents are a common result. Every year, thousands of collisions are caused by a driver running a stop sign, with many resulting in side-impact accidents and rollovers.

Traffic signs and signals are always there for a reason. When drivers ignore them, they put everyone at risk. Approximately 4% of fatal car crashes are attributed to a driver failing to obey signs, signals, or traffic officers.

4. Unsafe Lane Changes

On the freeway, drivers frequently have to negotiate lane changes to overtake and make exits, etc. When motorists fail to safely change lanes, particularly when traveling at high speeds, serious accidents can result.

It is vital to check your blind spots when changing lanes, use your turn signals, and proceed into the next lane with caution.

5. Adverse Weather

With the changing seasons comes a shift in weather that can greatly impact motorists. Weather conditions are a major factor for motorists to consider, with fog and rain obscuring visibility, and ice and surface water vastly increasing stopping distances.

Bad weather significantly increases the risk of an accident. Sometimes, just a fleeting lapse in concentration can cause a major accident. If you do not feel comfortable driving in adverse weather conditions, it’s far better to postpone your journey than to risk an accident.

6. Careless Driving

Unlike reckless driving, careless driving is considered to be driver behavior that is unintentional or accidental. Careless driving poses a real risk to the driver, their passengers, and everyone else on the road. It is crucial for drivers to pay close attention to the road at all times.

7. Tailgating

Tailgating is never a good idea, no matter how excruciatingly slowly the car in front of you may seem to be traveling. Maintaining ample distance between your car and other vehicles on the road provides you with plenty of time to react to other drivers who suddenly brake or make a sudden turn.

8. Driving Under the Influence

Driving drunk or under the influence of illicit drugs or some types of medication impairs motorists’ reaction times and driving abilities. Each year, approximately 5,500 drivers involved in fatal accidents are found to be under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs, or medication at the time of the collision.

9. Driving While Tired

According to statistics from the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, up to 20% of all car accidents are caused by tired drivers. The study revealed that younger drivers are particularly vulnerable, with 18- to 20-year-olds accounting for significantly more fatigue-related car accidents. Surprisingly, the institute observed more crashes and near crashes due to fatigue during the daytime rather than at night.

Statistics show that tired drivers are every bit as dangerous as those driving under the influence, with reaction time slowed down significantly. If you find yourself feeling tired while behind the wheel, you should stop at the first opportunity and take a break in a safe place. As a general rule of thumb, drivers should avoid driving more than eight hours in a single day, taking 15-minute breaks every three hours.

10. Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is an increasing problem that has been the leading cause of car accidents for decades, exacerbated by the increased use of mobile phones and technology.

A good driver is consistently attentive and alert. Not only is it crucial for motorists to avoid distractions themselves, but they need to ensure that their passengers do not cause distractions either. Passengers can help by adjusting the climate controls, the radio, or navigation systems for the driver, freeing them up to give their full attention to the road.