Traffic collision
A
traffic collision, also known as a
traffic accident,
motor vehicle collision,
motor vehicle accident,
car accident,
automobile accident,
road traffic collision,
road traffic accident,
wreck,
car crash, or
car smash occurs when a vehicle collides with another vehicle, pedestrian, animal, road debris, or other stationary obstruction, such as a tree or utility pole. Traffic collisions may result in injury, death, vehicle damage, and property damage. A number of factors contribute to the risk of collision, including vehicle design, speed of operation, road design, road environment, driver skill and/or impairment, and driver behaviour. Worldwide, motor vehicle collisions lead to death and disability as well as financial costs to both society and the individuals involved.