The causes of traffic accidents

There are a number of recognised factors in traffic accidents. By knowing what they are we can drive in a way that minimises the risks.

Many accidents happen simply because the driver is going too fast. The slower you're going, the less distance it will take to stop. By going slowly, you will also be able to observe your surroundings more easily and notice emerging dangers such as cyclists, pedestrians, children playing and other vehicles. Sticking to the speed limit is one sure way to reduce your chance of an accident. In poor conditions you should be doubly careful about your speed.

Another main cause of accidents in traffic is a simple matter of not paying enough attention. Many people pay far less attention than they should to be safe, being distracted by music, conversation or thinking about anything other than driving.

Tiredness is also a contributor to traffic accidents. Recent studies show that while many drivers would never consider drinking under the influence of alcohol, they are prepared to drive while tired. What they dont realise is that their facalties can be impaired by tiredness to an equal or even greater extent than by alcohol.

Drink and Drugs. Being less that fully alert is precisely why people take drink and drugs, so it stands to reason that they will be less alert than when fully sober. Even stimulants which make people think they are more alert have a negative effect on reation time and ability to judge traffic conditions.