We examine four factors that are large contributors to accidents on our roads.
Only four factors contribute to the majority of collisions. Over 95% of motor vehicle accidents in the USA or Europe involve some degree of driver behaviour combined with one of the other three factors:
- Equipment Failure: The most cited types of equipment failure are loss of brakes, tyre blowouts or tread separation, and steering/suspension failure. However, equipment failure accounts for less than 5% of all motor vehicle accidents. Under inflation is the most frequent cause of tyre failure. Uneven or worn-out tyres are the next most serious problem
- Roadway Design: Even though motorists blame roadway design for accidents, it's rarely the cause. Slowing vehicle speed on poorly designed roads can usually prevent accidents, and vehicle speed should be reduced further during poor weather.
- Poor Maintenance: Road maintenance does contribute to some motor vehicle accidents. Debris on the roadway, faded road signs, signs obscured by foliage, potholes, roadway construction, and salting and sanding are common contributors to accidents. However, slowing vehicle speed usually reduces the risk.
- Driver Behaviour: Human behaviour is the factor that contributes the most to vehicle accidents. Studies have shown that drivers tend to believe the other party (if any) is at fault, while only 5% admit that they were the only one at fault. Surveys always show that most people consider themselves more skilful and safer than the average driver. Common causes of accidents are the driver speeding or becoming distracted, for example by a cell phone call or a spilled cup of coffee. Very few accidents result from an 'Act of God,' like a tree falling on a vehicle. Source: http://www.smartmotorist.com/traffic-and-safety-guideline/what-causes-car-accidents.html