What Causes Car Accidents in Arizona?

Three key factors are the primary causes of car accidents in Arizona.

The three biggest causes of car accident deaths in Arizona are alcohol, speeding, and distracted driving. This aligns with national statistics; interestingly, while the number of alcohol-related deaths is on the decline, the incidence of distracted driving fatalities is on the rise. Factors such as texting while driving, using navigation apps, and engaging with passengers contribute significantly to this trend. 

Given the prevalence of these dangers on the road, securing legal representation for car accidents can be vital in ensuring that victims receive the compensation they deserve.  Experienced attorneys understand the complexities of these cases and can help navigate the legal process, hold reckless drivers accountable, and fight for the rights of those injured or affected by these tragic incidents.

In Arizona, the three biggest causes of car accident deaths are alcohol, speeding, and distracted driving. This tracks national statistics. Interestingly, the number of alcohol-related deaths is on the decline, while the incidence of distracted driving deaths is on the rise.

Human Conduct Causes Car Accidents in Arizona

While human conduct causes car accidents in Arizona, other factors contribute to these dangerous events. Numerous factors contribute to the risk of collision, and cause car accidents, including:

• impairment due to alcohol or drugs,
• aggressive behavior, notably speeding, weaving through traffic, and road rage,
• distractions, like cell phones, radio, food, and passengers,
• vehicle design,
• road design,
• road conditions, and
• driver skill.

Car accidents lead to death and disability, property damage, as well as financial costs to both society and the individuals involved.

In 2021, more than 38,000 Americans died in car accidents. Over 1,000 of those people were killed in Arizona crashes, resulting in over $11.2 billion in economic losses. Arizona had over 121,345 car accidents, resulting in total economic losses of almost $20.2 billion. That is more than the GDP of almost half the countries in the world!

Since 2011, Arizona has seen a steady increase in the number of car accidents—rising from 103,958 to 121,345. This percentage increase correlates with the percentage increase in registered vehicles. In other words, more vehicles on the roads mean more car crashes. Thankfully, though, the number of fatalities has only risen a minor amount—rising from 827 to 1,063.

What is the most dangerous time to drive in Arizona?

Arizona data shows you are least likely to have a car accident between the hours 8:00 p.m. and 5:59 a.m., likely because there are far fewer vehicles on the road. Not surprisingly, you are more likely to have a car accident during rush hour (e.g., 3:00 p.m. – 5:59 p.m.). The number of fatalities does not follow the same logic. Peak times for traffic fatalities are the 3:00 p.m. hour, and 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., with an uptick between 11:00 p.m. and 12:59 a.m.

Since alcohol is a significant cause of car accident fatalities, it is not surprising that the deadliest periods on the road are from Friday at 8:00 p.m. to Saturday at 2:59 a.m. and from Saturday at 1:00 p.m. to Sunday at 2:59 a.m.

How to avoid common causes of car accidents in Arizona.

If you are driving during any of the times discussed above, try to be more attentive to your driving and watch out for other drivers who are not doing the same. With the vast majority of crashes being rear-end collisions, you want to make sure you are slowing down way before you need to stop in hopes that the person behind you will respond with enough time to avoid hitting you.

What do I do when someone else causes my car accident in Arizona?

If you, or someone you care about, is hurt in a car accident in Arizona, call the experienced car accident lawyers at Gage Mathers Law Group now.

We have successfully handled thousands of car crash cases, from simple fender benders to multi-vehicle pileups. We will manage all legal aspects of your case while you focus on getting through this difficult time.

We will keep in frequent contact with you to make sure nothing is missed. We’ve developed innovative methods to deliver legal services focused on getting you justice and the results you deserve.

About the Author

Joseph D'Aguanno

Guided by the belief that being a highly skilled specialist in a narrow field is better than being ordinary in everything, Joseph “JD” D’Aguanno leads Arizona’s best personal injury law firm in Phoenix, AZ. Having extensive cross-training in pre-litigation negotiations and trial lawyer skills, with decades of experience, JD strives to provide clients with the most valuable legal services a personal injury lawyer can provide. Under his direction, Gage Mathers Law Group is an award-winning personal injury law firm providing aggressive representation to victims of a car accident, medical malpractice, dog bite, motorcycle accident, and other injurious events. Gage Mathers is trusted by thousands of lawyers and clients throughout the country because of their reputation for getting clients the maximum compensation they deserve.

Years of experience: Over 23 years
Bar number: 020421
Location: Phoenix, AZ
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