Is a road crash really an accident? When a crash happens due to a driver exceeding both speed limits and the legal blood alcohol concentration, is it still an “accident”? In truth, such crashes are avoidable, not sudden or unexpected events.
The term “accident” typically refers to something unplanned and without apparent cause, but reckless driving is a preventable behavior.
A few years ago, I published an article titled “Road Crash – Not Road Accident.” Although not original, it aimed to raise awareness about the true nature of road crashes and encourage safer driving practices.
The article questioned whether road accidents are truly “accidents” and highlighted the gaps in road safety enforcement worldwide.
Unfortunately, governments often prioritize other issues over road safety, and many individuals and corporate bodies treat road safety as an afterthought.
Despite the fact that over four times as many people die in road crashes than in violent crimes, road safety continues to be neglected.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 4.4 million people die each year from unintentional injuries, including road traffic crashes, falls, drowning, and poisoning.
Of these, around 3.16 million deaths are due to unintentional injuries, with road traffic crashes contributing to nearly a third of these fatalities.
The Police Foundation in the UK, in its 2023 report, emphasizes the urgency of addressing road safety, noting that road traffic deaths surpass homicides and terrorist attacks combined.
Despite the positive steps taken, more than 25,000 people are killed or seriously injured on UK roads annually.
A Comparative Look at the COVID-19 Response
Recall the resources allocated to fighting COVID-19, a global pandemic that caused widespread concern. Governments, private sectors, and individuals mobilized huge financial and human resources to combat COVID-19.
Meanwhile, road traffic fatalities, which cause far more deaths globally, continue to be inadequately addressed.
Changing Our Perception of “Accidents”
To significantly reduce road crashes, we must shift how we view these incidents. The term “accident” should be replaced with “crash,” as many crashes are entirely preventable.
Since the start of 2025, numerous crashes have already occurred, resulting in tragic losses.
Drivers should reflect on the significance of this article and reconsider their driving habits for the safety of themselves and others.
Paul Wenham-Clark, in his photo documentary “When Lives Collide,” explains why he prefers the term “incident” over “accident.”
He argues that an “accident” implies an unavoidable event, whereas most crashes are the result of preventable actions, such as speeding or impaired driving.
The tragic death of Princess Diana, caused by a driver who was both speeding and over the legal alcohol limit, proves that such crashes are not mere accidents—they involve negligence.
Professor Ian Roberts, of the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, also critiques the use of the word “accident.” He points out that we know more about the causes of child road deaths than we do about many childhood diseases.
Just as we wouldn’t call a case of meningitis an “accident,” we shouldn’t describe fatal road crashes this way either.
Road crashes are avoidable, and it is time we acknowledge this reality.
By stopping the use of the term “accident” and focusing on responsible driving, we can reduce fatalities and create safer roads for all. Let’s treat road crashes with the seriousness they deserve.
For more on how we can improve road safety and prevent crashes, click here.
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