Many have a preconception that one gender or another is better or worse behind the wheel. But is that actually true? Driving is often a daily part of many of our lives, and doing so safely is critical to keep yourself, loved ones, and others safe on U.S. roads. Knowing whether men or women are involved in more accidents and why (if that is the case) can be beneficial to all.
Who Has More Accidents
According to statistics, males are involved in more accidents than women on a yearly basis. According to the numbers reported by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), men cause approximately 6.1 million car crashes each year, while women cause 4.4 million. Men cause more traffic accidents even though there are more women with driver’s licenses (105.7 million) than men (104.3 million), according to a study conducted by Michigan’s Transportation Research Institute (MTRI). Part of the reason behind this is that male drivers tend to travel longer distances than women–as much as 6,000 more miles per year, according to Kelley Blue Book. Men are also more likely to exhibit risky driving behaviors such as not wearing a seat belt, driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, driving above the speed limit, and driving while drowsy.
Driving While Intoxicated
It is no secret that driving under the influence is dangerous and can cause severe accidents, serious injuries, and even death. While both genders may drive while under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol, statistics from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) show that about 81% of those arrested for DUI were men.
Driving While Drowsy
The American Automobile Association (AAA) notes that drivers who do not get enough or quality sleep at night are at a higher risk of being involved in a car accident when they get behind the wheel. In fact, individuals who have less than four hours of sleep have an 11.5 higher likelihood of getting into a crash. The AAA’s study indicates that drowsy driving can be more dangerous than driving intoxicated, and men are more likely to drive drowsy than women. An NHTSA survey found that males are almost twice as likely to report falling asleep behind the wheel when compared to females.
Driving Above the Speed Limit
Men are more likely to drive above the posted speed limit than women, according to statistics. Similarly, younger drivers are more likely to speed than older drivers. The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) found that 31% of drivers involved in fatal crashes were male and between the ages of 15 and 20. Women within the same age group accounted for 17% of drivers involved in deadly car accidents. Older drivers tend to speed less across both genders. Speeding contributes to as much as 29% of all deadly car crashes, according to a 2020 study performed by the National Safety Council (NSC). Speeding is particularly dangerous because it increases the likelihood of losing control of the car, requires longer distances to be able to slow down or stop, and increases the level of impact in the event of a crash.
Contact Our Nevada Personal Injury Lawyers
Irrespective of gender, both men and women are involved in car accidents across the U.S. If you have been involved in a Nevada car accident, contact our experienced personal injury attorneys at H&P Law. All consultations are confidential, and we can explain how we can help you seek the monetary compensation you deserve. Call (702) 598-4529 today.
