Can Sneezing While Driving Cause Accidents?

For those who have ever sneezed while driving, the question often arises: Can a sneeze actually cause an accident? This piece aims to explore this question, examining the frequency, legal considerations, actual incidents, and the potential risks involved.

Is There Data Supporting Sneezing-Related Accidents?

The exact number of accidents caused by sneezing is hard to pinpoint. Many drivers who experience such incidents are hesitant to report them, possibly due to embarrassment. When a worried driver searched this topic on Google once, the results were less than convincing. Official data suggested that less than 1% of reported accidents were attributed to sneezes. However, these numbers may not fully represent the truth, as sneezes might be perceived as a trivial cause of an accident.

Recognized Defense: Automatism in the UK

In the United Kingdom, there is a recognized legal defense for driving accidents caused by a sneeze. When a driver is charged with 'Driving without Due Care or Attention' or 'Careless Driving,' a defense based on automatism can be considered. Automatism is the legal term for actions performed involuntarily, and if a sneeze was the cause of the accident, it can be argued that the driver's actions were beyond their control. This recognition highlights that while rare, sneezing can indeed be a factor in driving accidents.

Real-Life Incidents of Sneezing-Related Accidents

One dramatic real-life incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential danger. A friend of a specific individual had an accident where he sneezed during a sharp turn, missing a stop sign and drifting into a busy road. The collision between the two vehicles resulted in one car being flipped over and landing in a ditch. The other car veered into the air, landing upside-down on a sign post, which penetrated the passenger seat. Fortunately, no one was injured, aside from whiplash. The emergency services arrived to clean up the scene, only to witness another similar accident occur right in front of them.

Statistics and Risks

While specific statistics might be difficult to find, some British organizations estimate around 2500 sneeze-related driving accidents occur weekly. At 60 mph, a driver's car will travel approximately 50 feet with their eyes closed during a sneeze. This distance, combined with the natural tendency to jerk during a sneeze, increases the risk of accidents. These risks are heightened in areas with sharp turns, complex terrain, or high traffic volumes.

In conclusion, while sneezing while driving is not a common cause of accidents, it is a recognized factor in certain incidents. The legal protection of automatism under UK law acknowledges its role, and real-life examples highlight its potential to cause significant accidents, even at relatively modest speeds. As with any driving behavior, maintaining proper health and focus is crucial to avoid such incidents.