Why Do Most Accidents Happen Close to Home?
There’s a common saying that you’re most likely to get into a car accident close to home. But is there any truth to this saying?
Statistics show this to be true. In a study of 3,280 patients between 2005 and 2010, 88% were injured within 10 miles of home. The median distance was 0.2 miles. This study included all types of accidents, though, not just car crashes. When it came to car crashes, 77% occurred within 10 miles of the victim’s residence.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also examined the data regarding car accidents and where they occurred. The NHTSA showed that more than half of auto accidents involving serious injury or death occurred within 25 miles of home. Close to 52% of accidents occur within five miles of home.
So this begs the question: why are car accidents more likely to occur close to home? The main reason is that most drivers spend more time on those roads. On average, Americans drive 29.2 miles per day. Not many travel outside that radius, so it makes sense that they would get into the majority of their accidents within that distance. Also, most drivers take short trips more frequently than long ones, so they don’t typically spend much time behind the wheel each day.
Another thing to consider is that accidents occur frequently in the initial moments of a trip. As much as 43% of accidents occur before the driver has spent more than 10 minutes behind the wheel. Statistics also show that 25% of car accidents happen within the first three minutes of driving. Here are some reasons for this:
- On familiar roads, drivers tend to be overconfident. They are more likely to speed or engage in other risky behaviors since they feel comfortable. However, this can lead to accidents.
- Many people leave their home without being fully ready. They may put on makeup or look at their phone while driving down the road. They may be adjusting their seats, heating, or the radio station. These distractions can all lead to accidents.
- Neighborhood hazards. Neighborhoods offer several potential hazards that drivers must avoid. These hazards may vary and make it difficult for some drivers to predict. For example, there may be times when there are a lot of children in the roads. There may be garbage trucks or deer or other animals in the road.
- This is likely to happen at the end of the day, but can happen first thing in the morning as well. Tired drivers are not as able to gauge hazards and drive safely. They may not be able to stay in their lane and may even travel off the road.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
Accidents can happen anywhere, but most happen close to home. This means you need to stay alert and not get too comfortable while behind the wheel.
Crashes happen. When they do, call a Houston car accident attorney from The West Law Office, PLLC. We’ll guide you through the process and work hard to get you full and fair compensation. Call 281-347-3247 or fill out the online form to schedule a free consultation.
Source:
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4375775/
