Great Britain road traffic accident report

What are the main reasons for road accidents in Great Britain?

1 . Driver/Rider error or reaction

The leading cause of collisions is due to errors or incorrect reactions from drivers as it accounts for 64% of incidents (43,000 in total). This includes manoeuvring dangerously at junctions and suddenly braking or swerving, so it’s important to ensure you’re aware of your surroundings and stay focused when driving.

2. Driver/Rider failed to look properly

Drivers or riders failing to properly look when on the road causes 23,816 accidents a year, equating to 35% of total accidents overall. It’s important to use all points of view when driving or manoeuvring, including all windows and mirrors, and when necessary, moving to check blind spots, so you are aware of all potential hazards and other road users - including pedestrians.

3. Behaviour or inexperience

The behaviour or inexperience of drivers led to a quarter (25%) of accidents (16,693 collisions in total). In fact, the actions of learner or inexperienced drivers alone caused 2,477 accidents. Being confident behind the wheel of the vehicle you are driving and staying calm is key for the safety of those in your vehicle, as well as other road users.

4. Injudicious actions

Showing a lack of judgement (injudicious actions), such as speeding or disobeying signs, signals, and road markings, causes 22% of accidents in Great Britain a year (14,455 collisions in total). Speed limits are set for a reason and abiding by them is the law. However, almost 5,000 accidents were caused by drivers and riders exceeding the speed limit.

5. Driver/Rider failed to judge other person’s path or speed

Drivers failing to correctly assess another driver’s intention or speed was a cause of almost one-in-five (19%) accidents. With the most recent data showing that a total of 12,618 incidents have been reported as a result of this in a 12-month period, it’s imperative you pay close attention to others on the road, and always keep lots of space between the vehicle in front of you, so you have time to react safely.

6. Driver/Rider acting carelessly, recklessly or in a hurry

Being in a hurry and driving recklessly or carelessly led to 12,023 accidents (or 18% of all accidents) on British roads throughout a 12-month period according to most recent Government data. But it’s not just drivers or riders that can act this way and cause a collision - pedestrian’s being careless, reckless or in a hurry also caused 1,677 accidents. 

7. Impairment or distraction

Impairment or distraction while driving has caused 17% of crashes, with 11,434 reported accidents in total over a 12 month period. This includes drivers being under the influence of drink or drugs, having impaired vision, or being distracted by devices such as a mobile phone. 

8. Road environment contributed

Inadequate road markings or signs, road layouts, or deposits on the road such as mud or oil can affect the condition of the road. Drivers need to be extra cautious and be prepared to react quickly when needed, as this was revealed as the contributing factor of 12% of accidents (7,784 total).

9. Poor turn or manoeuvre

Drivers and riders not taking the time to safely turn or manoeuvre their vehicle caused 11% of accidents, with a total of 7,482 incidents reported. Take your time, use all your windows and mirrors, and even refresh yourself on how to properly conduct manoeuvres in your vehicle to ensure the safety of yourself and others. 

10. Loss of control

Drivers losing control while behind the wheel resulted in 7,120 accidents in (11%). It’s important to always make sure you’re in full control of your vehicle to prevent accidents from happening. This includes everything from driving at a safe speed and manoeuvring appropriately for the weather conditions to not getting distracted.