Top Causes of Car Accidents in Pennsylvania & How to Avoid Them

Every year, thousands of drivers in Pennsylvania are involved in crashes that lead to injuries, property damage, and even fatalities. Many of these accidents happen because of preventable behavior behind the wheel. While weather and road conditions do play a role, most collisions come down to human error. Understanding the most common causes of car accidents in Pennsylvania can help drivers make safer choices and reduce their risk on the road.

Distracted Driving Is a Leading Risk

Distracted driving continues to be one of the biggest threats on Pennsylvania roads. Cell phone use—whether texting, calling, or using apps—is a major contributor. But distraction can come in many forms: eating, adjusting the radio, checking a GPS, or even talking to passengers.

In 2023, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation reported over 11,000 crashes involving distracted drivers. These accidents often happen in a split second when a driver’s attention is diverted.

How to Avoid It:

Keep your phone out of reach or use hands-free features.
Set your GPS before starting your trip.
Eat and drink before or after driving, not during.
Focus entirely on the road and pull over if you need to do something else.

Speeding Increases the Severity of Accidents

Driving over the speed limit or too fast for road conditions is another leading cause of crashes. High speeds reduce reaction time and increase the force of impact in a collision.

Pennsylvania sees a significant number of speed-related crashes on highways and local roads alike. Speeding is especially dangerous during poor weather or heavy traffic when roadways are more unpredictable.

How to Avoid It:

Follow posted speed limits, especially in construction zones or residential areas.
Slow down in rain, snow, fog, or when roads are slick.
Use cruise control on highways to maintain consistent speeds.
Stay alert for changes in traffic flow or road conditions.

Driving Under the Influence Still Causes Preventable Tragedies

Despite public awareness campaigns, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs remains a serious issue. Impaired driving affects judgment, reaction time, and coordination—all essential for safe driving.

In Pennsylvania, DUI-related crashes frequently lead to serious injuries and deaths. Law enforcement continues to crack down on impaired drivers, but accidents still occur when individuals make poor choices.

How to Avoid It:

Never drive after drinking or using any substance that impairs your ability to operate a vehicle.
Designate a sober driver or use a rideshare service if you plan to drink.
Report suspected impaired drivers to authorities.

Failure to Yield Causes Many Intersection Collisions

Intersections are common sites for crashes, particularly when one driver fails to yield the right of way. Whether running a red light, ignoring a stop sign, or misjudging the speed of another car, failure to yield often leads to T-bone or head-on collisions.

These accidents can happen quickly and are especially dangerous due to the angle and force of impact.

How to Avoid It:

Slow down as you approach intersections, even if you have the green light.
Always look both ways, even when you have the right of way.
Yield to pedestrians and follow traffic signals carefully.
Don’t assume other drivers will stop or follow the rules.

Tailgating Leaves Little Room for Error

Following too closely, or tailgating, is a behavior that increases the likelihood of rear-end collisions. This kind of driving doesn’t allow enough time to stop if the vehicle ahead brakes suddenly.

Tailgating is often tied to aggressive or impatient driving. It can escalate into road rage situations, which further raise the risk of accidents.

How to Avoid It:

Keep a safe following distance—at least three seconds behind the vehicle ahead.
Increase your distance in bad weather or low visibility.
Be patient in traffic and avoid aggressive driving behavior.
Don’t let frustration influence your decisions behind the wheel.

Poor Weather and Road Conditions Contribute to Seasonal Accidents

While not a human error, Pennsylvania’s weather does play a role in many crashes. Snow, ice, rain, and fog can make roads slippery and reduce visibility. Drivers who fail to adjust their speed or driving style to match these conditions are more likely to lose control.

Winter months typically bring a spike in weather-related accidents, especially in areas with hilly or rural roads.

How to Avoid It:

Slow down and drive cautiously during adverse weather.
Clear all windows and mirrors before driving.
Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns on icy or wet roads.
Keep emergency supplies in your vehicle during winter months.

Inexperienced Drivers Are More Likely to Make Costly Mistakes

Teen drivers and others with limited experience are more prone to accidents. They may struggle with recognizing hazards, reacting quickly, or handling unexpected situations.

While inexperience isn’t something that can be fixed overnight, awareness and education can help reduce the risks.

How to Avoid It:

Parents should ensure young drivers get plenty of supervised practice in different conditions.
Encourage defensive driving habits and ongoing learning.
Avoid distractions and take extra caution during the first few years of driving.

Conclusion

While no one can control every factor on the road, being aware of the top causes of accidents gives drivers the knowledge to act more responsibly. Small changes—like putting the phone away, slowing down, or staying calm in traffic—can make a big difference.

For those who have already been involved in a crash, especially due to another driver’s negligence, it’s important to understand your rights. Injuries can lead to high medical bills, time away from work, and long-term consequences.

Working with a personal injury attorney in Pennsylvania can help accident victims pursue fair compensation and navigate the legal process. Whether the accident was caused by a distracted driver, a failure to yield, or another form of negligence, legal support can be key in moving forward.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t face it alone. A skilled legal team can help protect your interests and guide you through every step.