What Are My Odds of Getting into a Car Accident?

Wondering how likely you are to be involved in a car accident? It’s not something most drivers think about until it happens to them. Whether you’re a careful commuter or just starting out on the road, understanding your actual odds can give you a clearer picture of the risks involved and help you make smarter choices behind the wheel.

This guide breaks down the numbers, the most common risk factors, and what you can do to lower your chances of being in a crash. It also covers what steps to take if a collision happens, so you're better prepared no matter what the road throws your way.

How Common Are Car Accidents?

Car accidents are far more common than most people realize. In Texas alone, there were over 15,000 serious injury crashes in 2023. On average, someone is seriously injured in a crash every 2 minutes and 6 seconds on Texas roads.

Nationally, motor-vehicle crashes claimed 44,762 lives in 2023, and an estimated 5.1 million people required medical consultation for injuries, according to the National Safety Council.

Industry estimates suggest the average driver files a collision claim roughly once every 17.9 years. That means even cautious drivers may experience three to four accidents in their lifetime.

Odds by the numbers:

• 1 in 95 – Lifetime odds of dying in a motor-vehicle crash according to the National Safety Council 
• Every 2 minutes – Someone is seriously injured in a crash on Texas roads
• 44,762 deaths and 5.1 million injuries – The national crash toll in 2023

What Increases the Risk of a Car Accident?

Not every driver faces the same risk. Factors that increase your odds include:

1. Driving frequency: The more time you spend on the road, the higher your exposure. Daily commuters or rideshare drivers statistically face more risk than occasional drivers.
2. Time of day: Crashes are more common during rush hour and late at night. Fatigue, impaired drivers, and low visibility all contribute to higher accident rates after dark.
3. Location: Urban areas typically see more traffic and, in turn, more accidents.
4. Weather and road conditions: Rain, fog, and even strong winds can reduce reaction time and visibility, especially on highways where high speeds are common.
5. Driver behavior: Speeding, distracted driving (like texting), and driving under the influence are leading causes of preventable crashes. Even minor distractions can dramatically raise the odds.

Is It Just Bad Luck, or Preventable?

While some collisions are truly out of your hands, many are caused by negligence, other drivers, poor road design, or even defective auto parts. When that happens, it's not just an accident, it’s grounds for a car accident injury claim.

That’s where a car accident attorney can make a difference, helping injured individuals understand their rights, handle insurance claims, and pursue fair compensation after a crash.

What to Do If You’re Involved in a Crash

Knowing the odds helps, but knowing how to respond can make all the difference.

If you're ever involved in a crash:

1. Check for injuries and call 911 immediately.
2. Document the scene with photos and videos if it’s safe to do so.
3. Exchange info with all parties involved.
4. Avoid admitting fault, even casually.
5. Contact a car accident lawyer before speaking to insurers.

Don’t Wait to Get Help

Car accidents can happen to anyone. If you’ve been hurt, don’t take chances with your recovery. Talk to someone who’s been through this process with hundreds of clients.

If you’ve been injured in a crash, don’t go through it alone. MAS Law has helped hundreds of clients, and our award-winning team is available 24/7 to handle your case.

Contact MAS Law at (972) 460-9339 to speak with a knowledgeable, compassionate team. We’ll guide you through your next steps and help you pursue the compensation you deserve!