What are the most common causes of car accidents in the UK?

Car accidents are tragic events that can lead to property damage, severe injuries and even loss of life. Although automotive technology has gone through many advancements, and road safety awareness has increased lately, car accidents occur regularly on UK roads. Even if most car accidents could be prevented, they still happen daily. Being involved in a car accident is one of the most stressful scenarios to be in, as the aftermath of a car wreck is not something you will ever want to go through. 

This is why you must always be focused while driving, as plenty of car accidents are avoidable. It will also be a good idea to understand the most common causes of accidents in the UK so that you will adopt safer driving practices and become more vigilant. 

In this article, we will discover the main reasons behind car accidents in the UK and the best ways to prevent them. 

Distracted driving

Distracted driving is one of the most common reasons why car accidents happen in the UK. This occurs when the driver changes their focus from the road to engage in other activities, like talking on the phone, texting, adjusting the radio, eating or using navigation systems. Even small distractions that take seconds can have catastrophic consequences, as inattention can lead to a car wreck. If you want to avoid this unfortunate event, you must refrain from other distractions and prioritise focusing on the road instead. 

Speeding

Exceeding the speed limit is another leading cause of road accidents in the UK. This happens because speeding reduces reaction time, making it harder for drivers to avoid unexpected road situations or potential hazards. Adjusting driving speed to the weather and road conditions and adhering to speed limits are crucial for preventing accidents. 

Drunk driving

Driving drunk or under the influence of drugs is a significant contributor to car accidents in the UK. If a person is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they will experience impaired judgement, reduced coordination and slower reaction times, which will significantly increase the chances of collisions. To stop drunk driving once and for all, there needs to be stricter laws and more public awareness campaigns. 

Aggressive or reckless driving

Reckless driving behaviours such as weaving or tailgating through traffic and road rage can put every traffic participant at risk. These irresponsible actions can cause minor disagreements, leading to accidents. Drivers must adhere to traffic rules and practise patience to promote a safer driving environment. 

Weather conditions

The UK is known for its bad weather conditions, ranging from fog to heavy rainfall. They can reduce visibility and create hazardous driving conditions, increasing the possibility of car accidents. So, UK drivers must be extra cautious in these types of weather, leave sufficient space between vehicles and reduce speed.  

Running Red Lights

Disobeying traffic signals or running red lights is another leading cause of car accidents in the UK. Intersection collisions are particularly dangerous, as they involve cars driving at high speeds. This is why drivers must exercise caution and obey traffic signals when approaching intersections to prevent accidents. 

Running red lights can involve other drivers who were complying with the regulations in the accidents. The driver who isn’t at fault can receive compensation for the harm done (more information can be found at https://www.accidentclaims.co.uk/personal-injury-compensation/car-accident-claims), but they will still experience a hard time dealing with this situation. 

Lack of car maintenance

Neglecting car maintenance can lead to numerous mechanical failures while driving, which increases the chances of an accident. Worn-out tires, faulty brakes and malfunctioning lights can contribute to collisions and compromise the vehicle’s safety. So, regular car inspections are imperative for ensuring roadworthiness. 

Inexperienced drivers

Inexperienced drivers, especially young or new drivers, are more prone to car accidents due to their limited road knowledge and lack of driving skills. New drivers need to be extra cautious so that they will not risk the lives of the other traffic participants. 

How can you prevent an accident?

Some accidents can’t be avoided, but many are. And you will surely reduce the risk of car crashes if you keep in mind some important steps, like the following:

• Have the right attitude when driving. Several accidents result from a bad attitude rather than knowledge and skills. So, if you want to prevent accidents, it will be good to practise a responsible attitude. Don’t forget that you are in control of over 3,000 pounds of fast-moving metal, so you need to remember that your life and others are at risk. 
• Wear your safety belt. Having a safety belt while driving can lead to minor injuries in case of a car wreck. So it will always be better to wear your safety belt, whether you are the driver or passenger.
• Limit night driving. The risk of car accidents is three times higher at night, so it will be better to limit night driving.
• Keep it slow and safe. You must always comply with the traffic rules to stay safe and avoid getting involved in a car crash. 
• Drive slowly in poor weather conditions. Bad weather conditions are among the most common causes of car accidents, so avoiding driving under these conditions will always be better. Still, slow down and be extra cautious if you must get behind the wheel in poor weather conditions.
• Don’t use phones while driving. Phones are also responsible for generating car accidents, as when drivers use them, they do not focus entirely on the road. So, don’t use the phone while driving. If there is an emergency, you can pull over to the side of the highway and use it then.
• Drive a safe vehicle. You also need to keep in mind to drive a safe car and always check your car maintenance. 

Safe driving is not only a responsibility but a commitment to the well-being of the other participants on the road. So, ensure you follow the rules so that you will not cause an accident or become involved in one.