Cars are a way of life in the U.S. They’re how most people get to work, shop for groceries, pick up their kids, and cross state lines. And with how often we drive, it’s no surprise that car accidents are incredibly common. Progressive Insurance, per the National Safety Council, estimates there are 36,000 vehicle accidents per day.
Statistically, most drivers file a car insurance claim about once every 18 years. But for more than 2 million people annually, the impact is far worse. Car accidents are one of the leading causes of injury and financial struggle in the U.S. Knowing what causes collisions—and how to avoid those situations—is key to protecting yourself and the people you love.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving remains one of the most deadly and widespread causes of collisions in the country. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 3,275 people lost their lives in distracted driving crashes in 2023. Distraction continues to play a role in a significant portion of all car accidents.
And the problem is bigger than most people realize. A Zendrive study found that 69 million drivers use their phones while driving every single day. But distraction doesn’t only come from your phone. Talking to passengers, adjusting the radio, reacting to something outside the car, or simply driving while exhausted can all be just as dangerous.
Driving Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol
Drunk driving has declined over the last 30 years, but it’s still one of the most common causes of fatal crashes. Drunk drivers kill about 30 people each day. In 2023, there were 2,117 alcohol-related fatalities where a driver had a BAC between 0.01 and 0.07%.
Reckless Driving
Not every crash has a neat explanation. Sometimes, people simply make reckless choices: speeding, tailgating, weaving through traffic, or ignoring traffic signals. These behaviors aren’t caused by distraction or intoxication—they’re just dangerous decisions that put other people in harm’s way. Every reckless driver increases the risk of injury for everyone else on the road.
Defective Parts
In some cases, drivers aren’t the ones at fault at all. Defective auto parts and poor manufacturing can cause devastating crashes. Take the Firestone tire recall of the early 2000s. A design flaw caused the tires to crack and blow out, especially on Ford Explorers, leading to thousands of injuries and deaths. Defective auto parts don’t just put drivers at risk—they can affect entire families in a split second.
Bad Weather & Poor Road Conditions
Rain, ice, snow, fog, or even potholes can increase the risk of a crash. These conditions may be outside a driver’s control, but how drivers respond to them matters. Speeding through a rainstorm or tailgating on icy roads makes a collision far more likely. Poor visibility or unsafe pavement shouldn’t be excuses—drivers have a legal responsibility to adjust their behavior based on conditions.
Driver Fatigue
Exhausted drivers are as dangerous as drunk ones. Fatigue slows reaction time, impairs judgment, and makes it easier to lose control. Studies show that being awake for 20+ hours can affect your driving as much as a blood alcohol level of 0.08%. Drowsy driving is especially dangerous for shift workers, truck drivers, and anyone with an untreated sleep disorder.
Teen & Inexperienced Drivers
Inexperience is a major factor in car accidents involving teens and new drivers. Without much time behind the wheel, new drivers may misjudge speeds, take unnecessary risks, or get overwhelmed in fast-changing traffic situations. Teaching young drivers defensive driving skills—and enforcing seat belt use—can save lives.
Are Most Collisions Preventable?
According to an article from the Stanford Center for Internet and Society, human error causes about 90 percent of car accidents. That means nearly every crash is preventable. While no one is perfect, every driver has a duty to be cautious, alert, and responsible behind the wheel. When someone fails to meet that standard and causes harm, they need to be held accountable.
That’s where we come in.
At Handler, Henning & Rosenberg, we’ve been fighting for Pennsylvania crash victims for more than 100 years. We know what’s at stake for you and your family. The medical bills. The lost income. The emotional toll of serious injuries. Our job is to help you recover what you’ve lost—and build the foundation for what comes next.
Our Pennsylvania car accident attorneys have recovered tens of millions of dollars for people just like you. Whether you're dealing with a delayed insurance claim or a life-altering injury, we’re here to fight for what’s fair.
Call (888) 498-3023 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation. You don’t pay unless we win.