Surprising Things That Can Cause A Dangerous Accident or Breakdown in the USA
While most drivers on America’s roads focus on hazards like speeding or distracted driving, the NHTSA (National Highway Transportation Safety Administration) suggests that up to 96% of accidents could be avoided by addressing less obvious factors. From the backroads of Maine to the highways of Ohio, some of the most dangerous threats are also the most surprising.
| USA Road Hazards: Surprising Stats | |
|---|---|
| Sneezing Impact | 50 feet traveled with eyes closed at 60mph |
| NHTSA Est. Accidents | ~6 million collisions annually in the USA |
| Animal Intrusion | Leading cause of "unexplained" engine bay fires |
1. The "Blind Seconds" of a Sneeze
About 7% of American drivers have been involved in an accident or a near-miss due to a sneezing fit. It sounds minor, but at highway speeds, a single sneeze means traveling roughly 50 feet with your eyes closed. Local police in Masardis, Maine, reported a serious truck accident in May 2022 caused specifically by a driver losing control during a sneezing fit. For those driving high-clearance vehicles or rigs on narrow U.S. corridors, these lost seconds are critical.
2. Cicadas and Bug Infestations
Insects are a significant but underrated threat in the USA. In 2021, a single-car crash in Cincinnati was attributed to a cicada that flew into the vehicle and struck the driver in the face. Beyond the distraction, bugs like spiders and ants can nest in critical sensors. In the U.S., cicada swarms are particularly problematic, as they can also clog radiators, leading to rapid engine overheating in the middle of a long-distance crossing.
3. Wildlife and Sleeping Cats
Across the States, from the suburbs to rural areas, cats and small wildlife often seek warmth under the hood of a parked vehicle. A sleeping cat on an engine block is more than an animal welfare issue; their hair can block filters, and their presence can cause severe damage to the engine belts or electrical wiring upon startup. Following the common "kick the tires" rule used by many U.S. truckers is a simple way to prevent a mechanical disaster before it starts.
4. Interior Clutter: The Pedal Block
With 45% of U.S. drivers admitting to "overwhelming" mess in their cars, the risk of a blocked pedal is real. A famous incident on Route 28 involved a Ford Explorer driving backward after trash jammed the accelerator. In the USA, where long-distance road trips often lead to accumulated trash (bottles, food containers), keeping a clear driver’s footwell is a basic but essential safety protocol. An unsecured bottle rolling under the brake pedal is a death sentence on any steep American grade.
Conclusion
Driving the American roads safely isn't just about following the speed limit; it's about being aware of the small, unpredictable factors that can turn a routine drive into a NHTSA statistic. Whether it is an allergy-induced sneeze or a cicada in the cabin, staying alert to these "surprising" hazards is key to completing any U.S. road trip safely.