Leading Causes of Fatal Car Accidents

According to the San Antonio wrongful death attorneys at The Aguirre Law Firm, car accidents are one of the most common causes of wrongful death. While many factors contribute to these fatal crashes, understanding their leading causes can help bring awareness to this important topic and encourage drivers to implement safe practices into their daily drive. In this article, we will discuss five primary causes of fatal car accidents.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is the first cause of fatal car accidents, claiming the lives of thousands each year. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving resulted in 3,308 deaths in 2022 alone. There are four main types of distractions – auditory, visual, manual, and cognitive – all of which pose dangers on the road. Essentially, any activity that diverts your attention from the road while driving is considered distracted driving. This includes texting, eating, drinking, making a phone call, adjusting your car controls, or even talking to your passengers.

Speeding

Speeding is another main cause of fatal car accidents. In 2022, there were 12,151 deaths in speeding-related accidents according to the National Safety Council (NSC). Furthermore, speeding was a contributing factor in 29% of all traffic fatalities during that year. Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to react to sudden hazards, lengthens required stopping distances, and increases the severity of collisions. Speeding becomes even more dangerous in certain conditions, such as poor weather or heavy traffic.

Drowsy Driving

Drowsy driving is another leading cause of fatal car accidents that is often overlooked. In 2022, it claimed the lives of 693 people. Driving while fatigued is extremely dangerous, as it can impair reaction times, compromise decision-making abilities, and make it difficult to stay engaged. Drivers most at risk of fatigue include long-haul cargo drivers and late-night shift workers. Getting a good night’s rest is crucial in preventing these types of accidents, and if you feel tired while on the road, it is important to pull over and take appropriate action.

Impaired Driving

Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol can also lead to deadly car accidents. Impaired driving is not only illegal, but it also slows reaction times, impairs judgment, and decreases motor coordination. While there is limited data on how many accidents were caused in part by drug use, the NHTSA reported that there were 13,524 deaths from accidents involving drunk drivers. Despite widespread public awareness campaigns and education programs surrounding these topics, impaired driving persists.

Road Conditions

While negligent and irresponsible driver behavior can result in fatal accidents, so can external factors such as road conditions. Roads that are poorly maintained, potholes, and uneven surfaces can cause vehicles to lose control, thereby increasing the chances of an accident occurring. Adverse weather conditions, such as heavy rain, snow, and ice, can further exacerbate these risks by reducing tire traction and visibility. While road conditions are somewhat out of a driver’s control, defensive driving techniques can be adopted to help mitigate these conditions. This includes slowing down, increasing following distances, and ensuring vehicles are equipped with weather-appropriate tires.