It’s true that individual car accidents happen for many different reasons. Common causes include distracted driving, drunk driving, aggressive passing, speeding and more. External factors, such as poor visibility or slick roads due to weather conditions, can also play a role.
However, research has shown that the vast majority—90% or more—of car accidents are caused by human error. Drivers are responsible because they make mistakes.
Often, these mistakes are tied to the root causes listed above. For example, a driver who is distracted by their phone might not notice a red light, run through it, and T-bone another vehicle legally passing through the intersection. While this could be categorized as a distracted driving accident or failure to yield, it ultimately comes down to human error. Had the driver been paying attention and driving responsibly, the accident wouldn’t have occurred.
The impact on intersection safety
This connection between human error and accidents is particularly evident when examining intersection safety statistics. Of all car accidents resulting in injuries or fatalities, roughly half occur at intersections. This striking figure highlights how human mistakes contribute to the issue. Intersections inherently involve traffic crossing paths, which increases accident odds. Drivers must rely on others to make the correct decisions—such as proceeding at the proper time at a four-way stop. Even one mistake can result in a serious collision.
Protecting your rights after an accident
Unfortunately, sharing the road means encountering drivers who make mistakes every day. If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by another driver, it’s essential to know how to seek financial compensation for medical bills and related expenses. Setting up a consultation with an experienced law firm can make all the difference. Call Quinn Law Firm today at 814-833-2222 for assistance.
