The most common mistakes made by drivers that lead to traffic accidents in Ukraine: what everyone should know

Road safety remains one of the key issues in Ukraine. Find out which mistakes made by drivers most often lead to traffic accidents and how to avoid them

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Road accidents remain a serious safety issue in Ukraine. According to information from the Kyiv Patrol Police, most accidents involving casualties occur due to typical driver errors—speeding, violating intersection rules, dangerous maneuvering, and driving under the influence. Most of these situations could be avoided if drivers followed basic rules and reacted to road conditions in a timely manner.

Below is a structured overview of the main mistakes that most often lead to accidents, with explanations and practical advice.

Speeding and not keeping a safe distance

One of the key causes of traffic accidents remains speeding. According to the Kyiv Patrol Police, drivers often do not take into account either traffic intensity or road conditions. Sudden starts, braking, and aggressive driving significantly increase the risk of collision.

The autumn and winter periods are particularly dangerous. During rain, leaf fall, snowfall, or icy conditions, a car's braking distance increases significantly. In such conditions, drivers are advised to reduce speed, increase the distance between vehicles, and switch to winter tires in a timely manner. Ignoring these recommendations often proves fatal.

Violation of intersection rules

Intersections are one of the most difficult sections of the road. According to patrol officers, this is where a significant number of accidents occur. The main mistakes are ignoring traffic lights or traffic controllers, failing to comply with road signs, and disregarding the rights of other road users.

Drivers are required to give way to pedestrians crossing the road they are turning onto, as well as cyclists traveling straight in the same direction. Driving into an intersection during a traffic jam poses a particular danger: if a car is forced to stop in the middle of an intersection, it creates an obstacle to traffic and increases the risk of a collision.

Dark hours of the day and poor visibility

During the dark hours of the day or in conditions of poor visibility, the risk of an accident increases significantly. This is especially true for pedestrian crossings. Drivers are advised to slow down in advance before a crosswalk, as pedestrians have the right of way.

At the same time, pedestrians must also take care of their own safety: walk on well-lit areas, use reflective elements, and cross the road only in designated places. Before stepping onto the roadway, it is important to make sure that the driver has noticed you.

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Dangerous maneuvering and driving into oncoming traffic

Driving into oncoming traffic is one of the most dangerous maneuvers, which often leads to serious consequences in the event of an accident. The police emphasize that such maneuvers should be avoided whenever possible.

If overtaking or driving into oncoming traffic is unavoidable, it should only be done on straight sections of the road with good visibility. Rushing and misjudging distance are often the cause of head-on collisions.

Mistakes when changing lanes

Failure to follow the rules for changing lanes is another common cause of accidents. When driving on the road, the driver must clearly follow the markings and signal a lane change in advance by turning on the turn signal.

It is also important to remember that when changing lanes, drivers must give way to vehicles already traveling in the lane they plan to enter. Ignoring this rule leads to side collisions and chain accidents.

Driving while intoxicated

Driving while intoxicated remains one of the most serious and dangerous mistakes. The Patrol Police emphasizes that it is prohibited not only to get behind the wheel after drinking alcohol, but also to allow an intoxicated driver to drive.

Driving requires concentration, sobriety, and normal well-being. If you have consumed alcohol or are feeling unwell, it is worth using a taxi or the services of a sober driver — this simple solution can save lives.

Public transport stops — a high-risk area

Public transport stops often become the scene of accidents with casualties. A typical situation that patrol officers pay attention to is when a person sees a bus or trolleybus and tries to cross the road without assessing the situation.

Drivers are advised to slow down as they approach a stop so that they have time to react to the sudden appearance of a pedestrian. Attentiveness in such places is critically important.

Distracted driving

Talking on the phone, adjusting the navigation system while driving, and being distracted by other things all reduce concentration and increase the risk of an accident. The patrol police recommend preparing the car for the trip in advance: adjusting the mirrors, route, and systems before starting to drive.

When talking on the phone while driving, use a hands-free device or speakerphone. If the call is urgent, it is better to pull over without violating traffic rules.

Seat belts: a simple action that saves lives

According to paragraph 2.3.c of the Traffic Rules of Ukraine, drivers are required to use seat belts and not to transport passengers who are not buckled up. This rule also applies to children — special restraint systems are mandatory for them.

Ignoring seat belts significantly increases the risk of serious injury even in a minor accident.

It is important to remember that even the most careful driver is not immune to accidents. That is why in Ukraine, every car owner is required to have a compulsory motor insurance policy — auto liability insurance. It covers damage caused to other road users and allows you to avoid serious financial losses in the event of an accident. You can quickly purchase auto liability insurance online on the Visit Ukraine platform — it's a convenient way to take care of your responsibility on the road without unnecessary queues and paperwork.

We remind you! In winter, roads become a real test for drivers: traction is worse, braking distances are longer, and any mistakes can result in an accident. But most winter accidents can be prevented if you understand the key risks and prepare properly for your trips. In this article, we look at the main mistakes, tips from instructors, and real life hacks for safe driving. Read on to find out how to avoid accidents in winter and protect yourself on the road.

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