The Human Factor in Road Traffic Accidents

Collisions on our roads involving cars, trucks and motorbikes are not uncommon. Accidents involving trucks can be especially catastrophic. The unfortunate reality is many accidents are preventable.  

From 1 January 2022 to 23 October 2022, there were 224 fatal crashes and 238 fatalities.

It is important that we try to understand what is causing so many accidents to occur, and when those causes relate to human-factors, what can be done to reduce the risk of a collision for all road-users.

Accidents involving trucks can be particularly serious given the nature of the heavy vehicles and the significant damage that can be done when a truck collides with another vehicle on the road.

An annual study by heavy motor insurer, NTI, released on 29 September 2022 reported that 63.5% of serious truck crashes were caused by driver error, fatigue and other human factors. That is nearly 2 out of every 3 incidents. 

According to the 2022 Major Accident Report prepared by the NTI’s National Truck Accident Research Centre (NTARC), the top 5 causes of human factor-linked serious crashes are:

1.     Inattention/distraction: 16.3%

2.     Inappropriate speed: 12.5%

3.     Inappropriate vehicle positioning: 10.5%

4.     Inadequate following distance: 8.6%

5.     Fatigue: 8.2%

This research serves as a reminder to all road-users to carefully consider and think about their driving habits and overall wellbeing before getting behind the wheel of car.

For further assistance

If you’ve been involved in a motor vehicle accident that was caused by the fault of another and need advice regarding your legal rights and time limits applying to your claim, call the team at Southside Legal to arrange an obligation free consultation.