What Percentage of Car Crashes Are Caused by Human Error?

Car crashes are a serious issue on Alabama roads, and a significant percentage of these incidents can be traced back to human error. Understanding how often human mistakes contribute to car crashes is crucial for drivers, lawmakers, and safety advocates alike.

Once you understand how big of a role human error plays in car collisions, it can help you see your crash in a whole different light. Get the help you deserve after your crash—call McPhillips Shinbaum at 334-262-1911 to set up a consultation with attorney Aaron Luck.

Defining Human Error in Car Crashes

Human error in car crashes refers to any mistake made by a driver that leads to an accident. This includes a broad spectrum of behaviors and decisions, such as distracted driving, misjudging traffic signals, and poor reactions to other drivers’ actions. Essentially, it covers any lapse in judgment or action that strays from safe driving practices. 

Human error is not just about the driver’s direct actions; it also encompasses failures to properly respond to hazardous conditions or the influence of fatigue and intoxication. Recognizing these elements helps us understand how often human error plays a role in car crashes and highlights areas where drivers can improve their habits.

Statistics on Car Crashes Caused by Human Error

The statistics surrounding car crashes and human error are alarming. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, approximately 94% of all car crashes are attributed to human error. This statistic underscores the critical importance of driver behavior in road safety. It’s important to note that this doesn’t mean that human error is the only factor in 94% of crashes. That is, the critical reason for the crash—the last event in the chain of events leading to the collision—was attributed to human error 94% of the time. In most cases, there are many other factors that play a role as well.

Common Types of Human Errors Leading to Car Crashes

Various types of human errors frequently contribute to car crashes. Some of the most common include:

• Distracted driving: Engaging in activities that divert attention from driving, such as texting, talking on the phone, or eating, is a leading cause of accidents. When a driver’s focus shifts from the road to another task, the risk of a crash increases significantly. 
• Speeding: Driving above the speed limit or too fast for conditions can limit a driver’s ability to react to abrupt changes in traffic conditions and increase the severity of crashes. Speeding shortens the time drivers have to make crucial decisions and can lead to more severe injuries or fatalities in the event of an accident. 
• Driving while impaired: Alcohol and drugs significantly impair judgment, coordination, and reaction times, leading to a higher likelihood of accidents. Intoxicated drivers are less able to process information quickly and react appropriately to road hazards. 
• Ignoring traffic signals: Running red lights or failing to stop at stop signs can create dangerous situations for all road users. Disregarding traffic signals often leads to collisions at intersections, which can be particularly severe due to the angles and speeds involved. 
• Fatigue: Drowsy driving is often underestimated, but it can impair a driver’s ability to react quickly and make sound decisions. Fatigued drivers may experience slower reaction times, reduced vigilance, and even fall asleep at the wheel, all of which increase the risk of a crash.

The Role of Driver Assistance Systems and Self-Driving Vehicles

Technological advancements are playing a significant role in enhancing road safety and reducing car crashes. Driver assistance systems, such as lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking, are designed to minimize human error. These systems provide extra support to drivers by alerting them to potential hazards or even taking control of the vehicle in critical situations. 

For example, lane-keeping assist can guide the car back into its lane if the driver starts to wander out of their lane. Another common feature, adaptive cruise control, can adjust the car’s speed to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead. 

Self-driving vehicles, or autonomous cars, represent a more advanced step in this technological evolution. However, there is still a widespread belief that there is a need for human engagement in the driving process. There are still things that only humans can do, and until that gap is bridged, driver assistance systems are our best bet for improved road safety.

Take the First Step in Your Claim

If you’ve been injured in a car crash, don’t wait any longer to see if you are owed compensation. Call McPhillips Shinbaum at 334-262-1911 or reach out online to set up a consultation with our personal injury team.