What are the most common causes of fatal motor vehicle accidents?

There are thousands of motor vehicle accidents annually in the state of Missouri, with a large portion of them resulting in fatalities. Nationally, some 37,000 people are killed in motor vehicle accidents each year. Due to the sheer volume of cars on the roads, it is likely for a driver to be involved in a couple of accidents during their lifetime. Here are some of the most common causes of fatal motor vehicle accidents.

Weather conditions routinely lead to fatal motor vehicle accidents. Whether it’s slick roads from rain and wet leaves, snow, ice or high winds, the weather has caused quite a few fatal accidents in Missouri. You should always maintain a safe following distance, but this is even more important when traveling during hazardous weather conditions.

Distracted driving is another common cause of fatal accidents. Distracted driving is not just the use of a cell phone or GPS system while driving. It also includes changing the radio, having a screaming child in the car, driving with a dog on your lap, eating while driving, drinking hot coffee or tea, shaving, putting on makeup and more.

Speeding is one of the most common causes of accidents overall, including fatal accidents. Speeding is defined as traveling one MPH over the posted speed limit. Try to monitor your speed as much as possible while behind the wheel. Slow moving vehicles can also cause fatal accidents. Drivers who operate well below the posted speed limit are a danger on the roads.

Reckless driving is yet another cause of fatal motor vehicle accidents in Columbia, Missouri. Reckless driving includes weaving in and out of traffic, tailgating another vehicle, speeding, not coming to complete stops at a stop sign or when making a right on red and more. Reckless driving is not only a danger to the driver, but also the passenger and all others on the road.

Driving while intoxicated (drugs or alcohol) is still a problem on the roads today. DWI and DUI accidents are common causes of fatal accidents for drivers, passengers and others on the road.



Fatal motor vehicles accidents can be avoided, but only by drivers who make conscious efforts to do so.

Source: Driven Autos Magazine, “Be Careful Of The Most Common Causes Of Car Accidents,” Jan. 04, 2017