Car collisions are unfortunate events that can lead to severe injuries or even loss of life, According to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, nearly 600 people died in car crashes in 2020.
As a driver in Wisconsin, understanding the most common causes of car collisions can help you stay safe on the road.
Distractions
Distracted driving is a leading cause of car collisions in Wisconsin. Distractions can take many forms, such as using a cell phone, adjusting the radio, eating or even talking to passengers. Anything that takes your eyes off the road, your hands off the wheel or your mind off driving is a distraction and increases your risk of a collision.
Driver behavior
Speeding is another major contributor to car crashes. Driving over the speed limit or too fast for the conditions reduces the time you have to react to hazards. It also increases the distance your vehicle travels before it can stop and can make the impact of a collision more severe.
Road conditions
The weather in Wisconsin can create challenging road conditions. Snow, ice and rain can make the roads slick and decrease visibility, increasing the likelihood of a collision. In such conditions, you should slow down, increase your following distance and make sure your car’s lights and wipers are working properly.
Environmental influences
Wisconsin’s diverse wildlife can unexpectedly move across roads, leading to collisions. Deer are especially common in rural areas and can jump out in front of cars without warning. In fact, there were more than 16,000 deer crash injuries in Wisconsin in 2020. You should always be aware of your surroundings, especially at dawn and dusk when deer are most active.
By knowing more about the common causes of car crashes in Wisconsin, you can help reduce your risk of a collision and contribute to safer roads for everyone.
