10 Causes of Road Accidents in India and Preventive Measures

Road accidents occur frequently, even though most road users are aware of safety measures. Road accidents can lead to injuries, financial struggles and emotional turmoil. The most unfortunate thing is that we don't learn from our mistakes on the road. Most of the people are quite well aware of the safety measures and general rules while using roads but slight lack of concentration can cause accidents and crashes. On that note, we will look at some of the causes of accidents on Indian roads.

According to the Transport Research Wing, which came out with the Road Accident Report of 2019, road accidents can have multiple causes.

1. Overspeeding

The major cause of road accidents in these recent years is overspeeding. It is also responsible for the most number of deaths and injuries in road accidents. Hence, drive within speed limits even when you are late.

2. Driving without a Valid Licence

Driving without a valid licence accounts for 9.9% of the total accidents. It may come as a surprise to readers to learn that drivers with valid licences accounted for a lion’s share of the total accidents! Meanwhile, driving with a learner’s licence accounted for 4.9% of the total accidents in 2019.

3. Driving In the Wrong Lane

This traffic violation accounts for 5.4% of the total accidents in 2019, according to the TRW’s report. As is noticed commonly, drivers do not keep to their lanes but cross lanes whenever they choose. This is very dangerous, and sudden swerving to the left or right can cause accidents.

4. Drunken Driving

It accounts for 2.7% of the total accidents. Always call a cab or arrange for a designated driver whenever you are at some party where alcohol is served. For every increase of 0.05 blood concentration of alcohol, accident risks doubles. Hence, choose not to drink and drive for your as well as others’ safety on the roads.

5. Use of Mobile Phone

This accounts for 2.3% of accidents, according to the same TRW report. Using a mobile phone while driving distracts you. Hence, you should pull up to the curb and answer calls instead of driving and speaking into the phone. Never take your eyes off the road, and do not attempt to text while driving.

6. Jumping Red Lights

This is the cause of 1.0% of road accidents in India. While this indicates vast compliance to the traffic rules, it is still a major cause of road accidents. Therefore, do not jump the signals as it may cause disasters.

Here are some ways in which you can prevent road accidents in India.

• Do not drink and drive.
• Wear a helmet/seatbelt.
• Drive within the prescribed speed limits.
• Never wear earphones or mobile phones while driving.
• Know and follow all the traffic rules and safety rules.
• Take breaks while driving for long hours at a stretch. 

In conclusion, we would like to stress the importance of being safe in 2022. Drive carefully and follow all the traffic rules of your state. It would help if you were a responsible citizen and heeded the advice of the government. Moreover, knowing the major causes of accidents can help you avoid them on Indian roads.