New analysis by the UK Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) has found that driver error is still the largest cause of vehicle accidents and the group is calling on drivers to improving their skills as part of an ongoing personal development process.

UK Department of Transport figures for 2014 show that driver error or reaction were cited as contributory factors in 74% of accidents, based on the fact that Police can cite up to six factors for the cause of each accident they report. The second highest factor was ‘behaviour or inexperience’ which was cited as a contributory factor in 26% of accidents. Only 2% of accidents were attributed to vehicle defects.

Director of policy and research at the IAM said, “People often blame their car, the road, or the other driver for the accidents and near misses that they have. These figures show that in the vast majority of cases, it’s the driver or rider themselves who is to blame.” He added, “Changing attitudes is the key factor when it comes to reducing the numbers of casualties on our roads. People must accept responsibility for enhancing their own skills and recognising their limitations.  The first step towards that is to think about advanced training.”