Why do People Crash on Straight Roads?

October 24, 2024

It may sound like a daft question, but often is the case that car accidents can happen on long stretches of straight roads. You would think that a straight road would be the easiest to navigate with no need of adjustments to the steering, braking or manoeuvring however this is where some drivers can lose concentration in a false sense of safety, quite often accelerating above the speed limit putting themselves and other road users in danger.

Overtaking on a Straight Road

Another cause is overtaking other vehicles and misjudging the time and distance required before any oncoming traffic appear that can cause a wild swerve or cutting in, worse still colliding with the oncoming traffic or the vehicle they are overtaking.

Speed and Poor Judgement

At the end of the straight road more often than not there is a bend, or a junction, careless drivers who have far exceeded the speed in order to take the bend or stop safely at the road end are forced to slam on the brakes which can result in loss of control of their vehicle and potentially with dire consequences.

Careless Driving

As your speed increases, so does the sensitivity of control and minor adjustments to steering and braking are magnified, this can cause an inexperienced driver to lose control, even though there are no hazards or other traffic about. Loose chippings, potholes and debris on the road can also add to this factor where the not so innocent driver simply crashes through speeding and through no fault than their own.

How to Drive Safely

Never exceed the speed limit, it is there for a reason, and even if the oncoming road ahead is clear, avoid overtaking but keep at a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you. Reduce your speed according to the weather conditions as adverse weather such as rain, sleet or snow can have an adverse impact on your stopping distances as well as reaction times, and in the winter months, ice patches can be an unseen hazard, easy to deal with at a safe speed, but treacherous when going fast.

Involved in an Accident on a Straight Road?

Should you be unlucky enough to be an innocent driver who has been hit by another on a straight road, whether a collision, or rear-ended, simply contact Innocent Driver on 0800 368 8928 and we will take care of your claim, without affecting your no-claims bonus, saving you on average up to £234 on excess fees,  as well as no out-of-pocket expenses to yourself.