Roadway Danger: 25 Most Common Causes For Car Crashes

Tony Mers • April 16, 2018
collision repair services

There are roughly 6 million car accidents in the U.S. each year. Though many of these crashes are by accident and virtually unavoidable, the majority of them could have been prevented with better driving, heightened awareness, and simply slowing down.

These crashes range in severity, but rear end are collisions are certainly some of the most common. In fact, on average, there is a rear end collision on U.S. roads every eight seconds.

If you've been involved in a crash, it's best to visit a professional auto body shop right away and seek out quality collision repair services so you can get your vehicle back to it's fully functioning form. Driving a faulty vehicle is just as, if not more, dangerous than almost all of the causes for these crashes. Similarly, in addition to knowing when to seek out professional collision repair services, it's best to know exactly what causes these frequent roadway accidents.

Here are some of the most common causes of automobile accidents on the U.S. roadways:

  1. Distracted Driving

  2. Drunk Driving

  3. Speeding

  4. Rainy, snowy, or Icy Conditions

  5. Reckless Driving

  6. Running Red Lights

  7. Running Stop Signs

  8. Nighttime Driving

  9. Inexperienced/Teenage Drivers

  10. Automotive Design Defects

  11. Improper Lane Changes and Turns

  12. Driving the Wrong Way

  13. Road Rage

  14. Drowsy Driving

  15. Tailgating

  16. Potholes

  17. Blown Tires

  18. Animal Crossings

  19. Construction Sites

  20. Loose Objects Inside Vehicles

  21. Strong Winds

  22. Intense Curves

  23. Street Racing

  24. Fog

  25. Bright Lights

Of all those causes, the three most common resulting in car accidents across the U.S. are distracted driving, drunk driving, and speeding. Many of these actions listed are completely avoidable and it takes a responsible driver to understand when you should or should not operate a vehicle.

It's time for everyone to start driving safely on the roads and limiting these driving mistakes. No matter where you are in the country, no matter what time of day it is, and no matter where you are going, it's essential that you always drive as safe as possible. Beware of other drivers because they're usually the ones you have to worry about. If you've been involved in any of these types of auto crashes and are in need of professional collision repair services, give River North Collision Repair a call right away.

A woman wearing sunglasses and a patterned scarf leaning against a black car inside an auto service
By River North Collision Repair September 17, 2026
Spot common signs of pothole damage, from tire problems to dents, vibrations, and uneven wear. Know when your car may need professional repairs.
A black SUV with open doors parked inside an auto service bay with hoses, bins, other cars, and over
September 15, 2026
Looking to repair or replace your car? Before deciding which option works for you, consider repair costs, your vehicle's value, the damage, and safety.
A person wearing gloves using a polisher on a gray car panel with yellow tape along the window edges
September 3, 2026
Car paint damage from accidents, vandalism, or weather may qualify for insurance coverage. Learn what factors can affect your claim and repair costs.
August 27, 2026
Foggy headlights can reduce visibility and affect your vehicle’s appearance. Find out what causes cloudy lenses and how professional repair can restore clarity.
Auto Body Shop vs Dealership: Cost, Quality, and Time
August 25, 2026
Compare an auto body shop vs. a dealership for cost, repair quality, and turnaround time to choose the right collision repair option for your vehicle.
A woman holding up a key fob in front of a black car that is parked indoors, with the front grille
August 24, 2026
Protect your car from door dings with nine practical parking tips that help prevent dents, preserve your vehicle's appearance, and reduce repair costs.
A man wiping the front of a black car with an orange cloth inside an automotive service area with eq
By River North Collision Repair August 10, 2026
Restore oxidized car paint before fading and surface damage worsen. Find the common causes and restoration options that protect your vehicle's finish.
Inside an automotive workshop, a technician is using a drill to remove the lug nuts on the tire of a
By River North Collision Repair July 28, 2026
Broken axle symptoms can affect vehicle safety and performance. Identify four common warning signs and learn when professional axle repair becomes necessary.
A close-up of a black car's side mirror and tinted window with bright reflections against a dark bac
By River North Collision Repair July 10, 2026
Get a clear overview of car door damage repair costs, common pricing factors, and when repairs or replacement make the most sense for your vehicle.
Diminished Value Claims in Illinois: What You Should Know
By River North Collision Repair June 29, 2026
Illinois drivers should know how diminished-value claims work after a collision and what steps can help them recover the loss of their vehicle's value.