Every year, around 1.19 million people die in car accidents. Numbers like this are sobering and say a lot. Many factors contribute to the cause of these accidents.
However, knowledge can help increase your awareness on the road. One question you may ask is: Where do most road accidents happen?
The answer is not as simple as you may think. We have broken down the numbers to discuss the most common accident locations and the causes behind fatal accidents.
In this article, we will explore this topic and what these numbers may mean for you.
Where Do Most Road Accidents Happen?
When are you most on guard while driving? For many people, the highway or interstate feels dangerous. However, while these roads pose risks, most accidents do not happen there.
Where do they happen? You might be surprised to hear that the answer is:
- Intersections
- Urban roads
- Rural roads
- Parking lots
- Residential roads close to home
Now, we will dive a little deeper into each of these areas.
Intersections
Intersections are among the most hazardous spots on our roads. With vehicles coming from different directions, the potential for collisions increases significantly. Drivers often rush or misjudge distances, leading to dangerous situations.
Many accidents occur when signals change and drivers make split-second decisions. Failing to yield the right of way can also contribute to serious crashes at these junctions.
In 2022, there were 42,514 traffic fatalities; a fair share of these happened at intersections.
The numbers break down like this:
- Fatalities at intersections without signals: 7,832
- Fatalities at intersections with signals: 4,204
- Total fatalities at intersections: 12,036
Accidents at intersections accounted for around 28% of fatalities.
When you add in accidents with injuries, around 50% of these accidents happen near or at intersections.
Pedestrians navigating intersections face risks, especially if they are not visible or drivers are not paying attention.
Urban Areas
In 2022, around 59% of motor vehicle deaths occurred in urban areas.
Urban areas present a unique set of challenges for drivers. Accidents are more likely to occur with numerous vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists sharing the road. The hustle and bustle can make it hard to stay alert.
Distracted driving often peaks in these busy environments as people juggle their daily routines. In addition, tight spaces mean that even minor collisions can result in significant damage.
Parking Lots
Parking lots are often overlooked when discussing road safety, but they can be surprisingly hazardous. With vehicles maneuvering in tight spaces and pedestrians navigating through parked cars, the potential for accidents increases significantly.
Around 20% of accidents happen in parking lots; however, the number may be higher due to unreported incidents.
Common incidents include fender benders due to distracted driving or misjudged distances while backing out. Around 2/3 of drivers are distracted while driving in a parking lot. What are they doing?
- Over 56% are texting
- Around 63% are programming a GPS
- About 49% are taking pictures or watching videos
- Over half use email or social media
It is essential to stay vigilant in parking lots. Slow down and watch for pedestrians at all times. Even a minor collision can lead to costly repairs and insurance claims, so drive carefully while you park your car.
Rural Roads
Around 41% of car accident deaths in 2022 happened on rural roads. While the numbers are lower in rural areas, they are still significant.
Rural roads often seem peaceful and scenic but can be surprisingly one of our common accident locations. With fewer cars on the road, drivers might feel more relaxed and less cautious. This mindset can lead to risky behaviors that increase accident risks.
In addition, many rural roads lack proper signage or lighting, making navigation tricky. Sharp turns and sudden changes in terrain are common features that catch many off guard.
Wildlife crossings add another layer of danger, as animals may unexpectedly dart onto the roadway.
Residential Areas Close to Home
Around 52% of accidents happen within five miles of home, and 77% occur within 15 miles or less.
There are several reasons behind this, including:
- Overconfidence because of familiarity
- Distracted driving
- Fatigue
- Neighborhood distractions
- Drunk drivers
Residential areas are often buzzing with activity, making them road accident hotspots. Children playing outside and families moving about create a lively atmosphere and increase the risk of collisions.
Drivers tend to be less cautious in familiar neighborhoods. Speed limits may be lower, but distractions can lead to dangerous situations. A moment of inattention can result in serious consequences.
Car Crashes by Region
Car crashes can vary significantly by region. Due to dense populations and heavy traffic, urban areas often see a higher frequency of accidents. Drivers navigate more intersections, leading to potential collisions.
In contrast, rural regions may experience fewer accidents overall but tend to have more severe incidents. The open roads can encourage speeding, making any crash potentially deadly.
Weather also plays a crucial role across different areas. Regions that face harsh winters might see increased accidents from icy conditions, while those in sunnier climates deal with distractions like sun glare and tourists unfamiliar with local roads.
States with high rates of deaths during accidents include:
- Mississippi
- Wyoming
- Arkansas
- South Carolina
- Montana
The states with the lowest rate of deaths from car accidents include:
- Massachusetts
- Washington D.C.
- New York
- Hawaii
- Rhode Island
Leading Causes of Fatal Car Accidents
Knowing the cause of these accidents can help you be aware and give you the knowledge to stay safe. So, what is behind these accidents? Fatal car accidents are often linked to several dangerous behaviors.
Drunk Driving
Drunk driving remains one of the leading causes of fatal car accidents. Around every 39 minutes, someone dies as a result of drunk driving; in 2022, this led to 13,524 deaths.
Countless lives are impacted by impaired individuals getting behind the wheel. Alcohol can significantly impair judgment and reaction times, making roads increasingly dangerous.
Many people underestimate how quickly alcohol affects their ability to drive safely. It is not just about being over the legal limit; even small amounts can reduce focus and coordination. That is why it is essential to plan for a safe ride home if you drink.
Lack of Seatbelt Use
Seatbelt use is a critical factor in road safety, yet many still neglect it. Studies show that not wearing a seatbelt significantly increases the risk of serious injury or death during an accident.
Not wearing a seatbelt also increases the risk of death or injury to other occupants of your vehicle by 40%. A seatbelt reduces the risk of fatal injuries by 60% in an SUV, van, or pickup and 45% in cars.
People skip buckling up for various reasons, from discomfort to feeling invincible on short trips. However, accidents can happen anywhere and at any time. Over 50% of accidents happen within five miles of home. It is essential to remember that even minor collisions can lead to severe consequences without proper restraints.
Speeding
Speeding is a leading cause of car accidents, whether it is on highways or city streets. Traffic accident data from 2022 shows that around 29% of deaths from collisions (12,151 people) were due to accidents caused by speeding. In addition, around 300,595 people were injured in accidents caused by speeding.
When drivers exceed the speed limit, they reduce their reaction time and increase the severity of potential crashes. A split-second decision can have life-altering consequences.
The thrill of going fast might seem appealing, but it often clouds judgment. Many people underestimate how quickly situations can change when speeding, making it harder to avoid obstacles or react to sudden stops.
Additionally, higher speeds lead to more intense impacts during collisions. This puts the driver at risk and endangers passengers and other road users nearby.
Distracted Driving
In 2022, distracted driving caused 8% of fatal car accidents.
Distracted driving is a growing concern on our roads today. It includes anything that takes your attention away from the primary task of driving, such as:
- Texting
- Talking on the phone
- Adjusting the radio
- Eating
- Doing makeup
- Grooming
- Yelling at kids
- Programming your GPS
These distractions can drastically increase the risk of accidents. Many drivers underestimate how quickly their focus can shift. Just a glance at your phone can lead to an accident. It is crucial to keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel at all times.
Drowsy Driving
693 deaths in 2022 were due to accidents caused by tired drivers. Drowsy driving is a serious issue that often goes unnoticed. When you are tired, your reaction times slow down, making it hard to respond to sudden changes on the road, leading to dangerous situations for you and other drivers.
Many people underestimate how fatigue impacts their ability to drive safely. Even a few hours of missed sleep can significantly impair your judgment and awareness behind the wheel.
If you are feeling sleepy, it is always better to pull over and rest than risk an accident. Taking short breaks or sharing driving responsibilities can make all the difference in keeping everyone safe on the road.
What to Do After an Accident
When an accident happens, it can be overwhelming and frightening. Knowing the next steps can help you move forward.
Make Sure Everyone Is Safe
The moments right after an accident can be chaotic. Your first priority should always be to ensure that everyone involved is safe. Check yourself and then look around for others who may need assistance.
If anyone is injured, call for medical help immediately. Even if injuries seem minor initially, it is best to have professionals assess the situation. Neck and back injuries can surprise you later.
Remember to stay calm. Keeping a level head will help you handle the next steps more effectively and support those around you better. Safety comes first; everything else can wait!
Do Not Leave
Leaving the scene of an accident can lead to serious consequences. It is important to stay put until everything is resolved. Not only is it a legal requirement, but it also shows respect for everyone involved.
If you leave, it could be interpreted as admitting guilt or fleeing responsibility. Ultimately, leaving can complicate any legal proceedings and affect your insurance claims later on.
Staying at the scene allows you to exchange information with other parties and ensure all details are documented correctly.
Exchange Information
Start by sharing the following information with the other driver:
- Name
- Phone number
- Insurance details
Remember to gather their information, too. Make sure you get the other driver’s license plate number, vehicle make, and model. All of this information will be helpful for any claims or investigations that follow.
If there are witnesses around, ask for their contact info as well. Their accounts can provide additional clarity about the incident if needed later on.
File a Police Report
Filing a police report after an accident is imperative. It officially documents the incident and provides an unbiased account of what happened. You will need the police report for your insurance claim and any legal proceedings.
When you contact law enforcement, they will arrive on the scene to gather information from everyone involved. Make sure to share accurate details and answer their questions honestly.
Afterward, request a copy of the report. Keep it safe with your records; it can serve as vital evidence if disputes arise later on regarding fault or damages related to the accident.
Take Photos
Take clear images of all vehicles involved, including any damage and their positions. Also, do not forget to document the scene itself. A wide shot of the area gives context-traffic signs, road conditions, and any obstacles. These details can help paint a clearer picture of what happened during a car accident.
Seek Legal Help
Seeking legal help ensures your rights are protected and you understand your options. An experienced attorney can guide you through insurance claims and liability complexities.
Do not hesitate to reach out for assistance. A knowledgeable attorney can make all the difference in achieving a satisfactory resolution after a car accident.
Schedule a Consultation With Preston, Wilson & Crandley, PLC
Where do most road accidents happen? Accident-prone areas are not limited to places you would expect, and you need to know how to respond when an accident occurs.
At Preston, Wilson & Crandley, PLC, we are here to help navigate the complexities of post-accident procedures and legal matters. Our experienced team ensures you receive the support and compensation you deserve.
We have been helping the people of Virginia since 1955, and we are ready to help you. Schedule a consultation to discuss your case.