Personal injury
Where do the worst car accidents occur?
Our experts explore what kind of roads see the worst accidents and how to reduce the risk.
Unfortunately, road collisions are all too common on UK roads, but some areas seem to carry a greater risk than others, such as motorways when compared with suburbs. When driving in higher risk areas, it is important to stay alert and drive safely.
In a survey we conducted, we asked Scots about their perceptions of the most dangerous type of roads and where they believe the most vehicle collisions occur. The top responses claimed that most Scots believe that the most collisions happen on motorways, country roads and in cities.
Motorway collisions
Our research found that a third of Scots (33.96%) believe the worst car accidents happen on the motorway. Due to the higher speeds allowed on motorways, it makes sense that there is a higher risk.
With speed limits of up to 70mph, as opposed to 20 or 30mph in urban areas, motorways require drivers with limited distractions in the car. The higher speed limits mean a shorter stopping distance and a quicker stop time. Drivers have less time to react and as a result, proper attention needs to be paid when driving at these speeds.
Country road collisions
Almost 4 in 10 (36.79%) Scots believe the worst car accidents happen on country roads. Due to country roads having a reputation for being narrow and bendy, there are allowances for this in the speed limitations. These speed limits help to combat the collisions that could happen if people were to drive carelessly on these roads.
The safest way to drive on country roads is to slow down for corners and use full beam headlights if you are driving at night. This helps other drivers to see you and reminds them to keep to the speed limit and stay alert.
City car collisions
Nearly 1 in 5 Scots (18.87%) think that the worst car accidents occur in cities. Driving in cities can be frustrating, especially during rush hour traffic, which means a driver could easily be distracted. When sat in traffic there may be a temptation for a driver to check their phone. Being stuck in traffic may also cause tensions to run high and lead to aggressive driving and more risks being taken.
Cities tend to be hubs of nightlife and with this comes a risk of driving under the influence. In Scotland, the breath alcohol limit is 22mcg per 100ml . Drink driving is a criminal offence and the penalties could include:
- A driving ban
- A criminal record
- A potential fine
- A potential conviction on your licence (that will be visible to employers if your job required driving
- Up to 14 years in prison if you cause a fatal crash while intoxicated.
As well as risking legal repercussions, driving under the influence can have fatal consequences for you, any passengers, and any pedestrians.
We are here to help.
No matter how experienced you are as a driver, a collision can happen to anyone, and the consequences could be devastating. If you were injured in a road collision, as a driver, a passenger or a pedestrian, we can help you.
Call us on 0330 041 5869 or contact us online today.