WGK Personal Injury Lawyers | July 15, 2025 | Personal Injury
Accidents can happen anytime, often when you least expect them. Many wonder about the leading causes of accidental death. Knowing the common risks can help keep you and your loved ones safe.
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Motor Vehicle Accidents
Car crashes are one of the leading causes of accidental death in the U.S. In Maryland and nationwide, motor vehicle accidents take thousands of lives each year.
Common factors in fatal crashes include:
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Distracted driving, like using a phone
- Poor weather conditions, such as rain or snow
These crashes can lead to serious injuries like head trauma or spinal damage. Even with seat belts and airbags, high-speed collisions can be deadly. Following traffic laws and avoiding distractions can lower your risk on the road.
Falls
Falls are the second leading cause of accidental death, especially among older adults, and often happen from:
- Slipping on wet floors at home or in public
- Falling from ladders, stairs, or elevated areas
- Losing balance due to age-related issues
Falls can lead to brain injuries, broken hips, or spinal damage. In older adults, hip fractures can lead to death within a year. Keeping walkways clear, using assistive devices, and installing grab bars can help reduce fall risks at home.
Poisoning and Overdoses
Unintentional poisoning is a significant cause of accidental death in the U.S. This includes:
- Drug overdoses, especially opioids and fentanyl
- Carbon monoxide poisoning
- Accidental ingestion of toxic household chemicals
Drug overdoses are the leading cause of poisoning deaths, impacting young adults and older populations. Properly storing medications and disposing of expired prescriptions can prevent many tragedies.
Carbon monoxide poisoning can be avoided by installing detectors and never using grills or generators indoors. Educating children about the dangers of household cleaners also helps prevent accidental poisoning.
Drowning
Drowning is another leading cause of accidental death, especially among children.
Fatal drownings often occur in:
- Backyard swimming pools
- Lakes, rivers, or oceans
- Bathtubs for young children
Children can drown in just a few inches of water. Even strong swimmers can struggle in rip currents. Watching kids closely around water and teaching them to swim early can help prevent drownings. Adults should also avoid swimming alone or under the influence of alcohol, which is common in adult drowning deaths.
Fires and Burns
Fires in homes, vehicles, or workplaces can become fatal quickly. Common causes include:
- Unattended cooking
- Faulty wiring or overloaded outlets
- Careless use of candles or smoking
Burns and smoke inhalation can be deadly. Installing smoke alarms, having fire extinguishers, and creating an escape plan can protect your loved ones. Teach children never to play with matches or lighters.
Suffocation and Choking
Suffocation is a leading cause of accidental death among babies and older adults.
Common situations include:
- Infants sleeping on soft bedding
- Young children choking on small toys or food
- Older adults with swallowing difficulties
To reduce these risks, practice safe sleep for infants by using firm mattresses. Supervise young children during meals and play. Cut food into small pieces for kids and prepare easy-to-swallow foods for seniors.
Other Common Causes of Accidental Death
Accidents can also happen during recreational activities and at work. Other causes include:
- Accidental shootings due to improper firearm storage
- Workplace accidents involving heavy machinery or falls
- Sports-related injuries, especially in contact sports, without proper gear
Storing firearms unloaded and locked away and wearing helmets in sports can reduce these risks.
What Are the Leading Causes of Accidental Death? Stay Alert to Stay Safe
So, what are the leading causes of accidental death? The top risks include motor vehicle crashes, falls, poisoning and overdoses, drowning, fires, suffocation, and other unexpected events. Staying aware of these dangers and taking simple safety steps can help protect you and your loved ones from preventable tragedies. Practicing caution every day could save a life and keep your family safe.
If your loved one died in an accident due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact WGK Personal Injury Lawyers for a free consultation with a Baltimore wrongful death attorney today.
Contact the Baltimore Personal Injury Law Firm of WGK Personal Injury Lawyers Today For Help
For more information contact the Baltimore personal injury law firm of WGK Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation.
WGK Personal Injury Lawyers
14 W Madison St, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States
(410) 837-2144
WGK Personal Injury Lawyers – Dundalk Office
7329 Holabird Ave Suite 3, Dundalk, MD 21222
By appointment only
(410) 970-3080
