Common causes of traffic accidents

Common causes of traffic accidents

Despite increasingly advanced vehicle technology, such as rearview cameras, adaptive headlights, and collision prevention systems, traffic accidents remain a frequent occurrence. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 40,990 people lost their lives on the roads in 2023. Traffic accidents, whether minor or severe, can significantly impact a person’s life, bringing financial costs, physical pain, suffering, or even permanent disability.

Human Error as a Key Factor

Statistics show that human error causes up to 94% of traffic accidents. While technical driving skills play a role, most accidents result from poor decisions made by drivers behind the wheel. Education and raising awareness about the most common causes of accidents can significantly contribute to reducing the number of incidents and increasing road safety.

The Most Common Causes of Traffic Accidents

1. Distracted Driving

One of the leading causes of accidents is driver distraction. Actions like texting, phone calls, applying makeup, reading, or even eating while driving divert attention from the road to the task at hand. Our brains cannot focus on multiple tasks simultaneously, meaning such behavior significantly increases the risk of accidents.

2. Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol

On average, 32 people lose their lives daily due to drunk driving. Although educational campaigns have reduced the number of such accidents, driving under the influence remains one of the leading causes of fatal crashes.

3. Speeding

Whether it’s running late for work, trying to “keep up” with traffic, or simply ignoring speed limits, speeding is a common cause of accidents. High speeds reduce reaction time and increase the severity of collisions.

4. Running Red Lights and Stop Signs

Approximately 40% of accidents occur at intersections, often due to ignoring red lights or stop signs. The rush to avoid waiting a few seconds can have fatal consequences.

5. Reckless and Irresponsible Driving

Frequent lane switching, reckless behavior, disregard for others’ safety, and ignoring warnings are characteristics of irresponsible driving that endangers everyone on the road.

6. Aggressive Driving

Unlike irresponsible driving, aggressive driving involves a combination of offenses, such as speeding, improper overtaking, and intentionally endangering others on the road.

7. Fatigue

Driving while drowsy or exhausted can be as dangerous as drunk driving. Tired drivers have slower reactions, impaired judgment, and an increased risk of accidents.

How to Prevent Accidents

Every driver can contribute to reducing the number of accidents by adopting the following habits:

• Avoid distractions: Focus solely on driving.
• Respect speed limits: Adjust your speed to road conditions.
• Don’t drive under the influence: If you’ve consumed alcohol, use a taxi or alternative transportation.
• Plan for rest: On long trips, take breaks every few hours.
• Be patient: Obey traffic signs and rules.

By raising awareness of these issues and taking preventive measures, we can work together to create safer roads for all.

If you’ve been in a traffic accident and need assistance with claiming material or non-material damages, contact Asim Mrkovic.