What are the common causes of roadway accidents?

The selection highlights critical factors that significantly contribute to roadway accidents. Speeding increases the likelihood of losing control of the vehicle and decreases the driver's ability to react to unexpected situations, making it a leading cause of crashes. Distracted driving, which includes activities such as texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting the radio, diverts attention from the road, significantly raising the risk of a collision. Additionally, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs judgment, reaction times, and coordination, making it a major contributor to accidents.

While poor weather conditions, vehicle malfunctions, and hazardous road conditions like potholes can indeed lead to accidents, the factors outlined in the selected option are often more prevalent in everyday driving scenarios and represent active choices made by drivers that can be controlled to a greater extent. These behaviors create an immediate and significant risk on the road, underscoring the importance of addressing them in educational campaigns and enforcement efforts aimed at improving highway safety.