The most common causes of accidents on the road

Road accidents continue to be a major concern here in the UK, and understanding the common causes of accidents is crucial for reducing, promoting road safety overall. Identifying the key factors that contribute to accidents can help you to take proactive measures to prevent them. So, whether you’re driving your own vehicle or one you’ve rented from us here at Intack Self Drive through our car hire, van hire or minibus hire services, it’s worth being aware of these risks, as you never know when you may encounter one on the road!

Distracted drivers

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of road accidents . The rise of smartphones and other electronic devices, has led to drivers becoming engrossed in texting, talking on the phone, or using social media while behind the wheel. It’s illegal here in the UK to use your phone when behind the wheel, and has been for quite some time. Unfortunately – let’s be honest – not everyone adheres to this law, so it’s worth being extra aware if you spot a driver on the road using their phone. To avoid having yours going off and distracting you while driving then try keeping it out of reach or on silent mode while driving, using a hands-free device for calls if necessary, or just pulling over to a safe location if you need to attend to something urgent.

Speeding

Excessive speed can significantly increase the risk of accidents and amplify their severity. Speeding reduces the driver's ability to react to unexpected situations and extends the braking distance, making it harder to avoid collisions. What’s more, road and weather conditions can also affect the likelihood of a road accident occurring. In the winter when the roads are icy, speeding can become an even bigger risk as it’s more difficult to slow down when the roads are slippery. So, in order reduce the risk of being involved in an accident caused by speeding, keep an eye out for the changing speed limits, and remain extra vigilant if you spot a driver that’s clearly exceeding the limit.

Drunk drivers

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs remains a significant contributor to road accidents here in Britain. The consumption of alcohol leads to impaired judgment, reduced coordination, and slower reaction times, which makes it extremely dangerous for individuals to operate a vehicle when under its influence. What’s more, drink driving is a big no in the eyes of the law, and drivers caught doing so can end up with a hefty fines and points on their licenses. That’s why it’s so important to designate sober drivers when you’re going out for a drink.

Fatigue

Many experts agree that driving while fatigued or drowsy can be as dangerous as driving under the influence. Fatigue impairs concentration, decreases reaction times, and can even lead to micro-sleep episodes behind the wheel, so it’s crucial to prioritise sufficient rest and avoid driving when feeling excessively tired. If you’ve been driving for 18 hours or more, then it’s strongly advised that you pull over to get some rest. As a general rule, always remember to get enough sleep before long drives, and take regular breaks during extended trips to combat fatigue.

Road accidents are often preventable if we take proactive measures to address their root causes. Acknowledging the common factors contributing to accidents can help us to collectively work towards making our roads safer, whether you’re driving your own vehicle or one you’ve rented through us. Speaking of which, All of our rental vehicles here at Intack Self Drive can be rented through our daily hire, or our outstanding Flexi hire service, so wherever your intended destination, we’ll have a vehicle that suits your requirements. We’ve got almost half a century of car hire, minibus hire, and van hire experience under our belts here at Intack, and we’re always here to help. Ready to get started? You can browse the best hire deals right here on our site, or give us a call on 0125457811!