Which age group causes the most car accidents in the UK?
Table of Contents
In the UK, the age group most likely to cause car accidents is younger drivers, especially those aged 17 to 24. This comes down to a lack of experience, riskier behaviour and sometimes overconfidence behind the wheel.
Knowing which age group is statistically more likely to be involved in collisions can help you understand why insurance can cost more for certain drivers. For wider help on selecting a car insurance policy, visit our car insurance comparison page.
Key points
Here are the important facts about the age groups most likely to cause car accidents on UK roads.
- Drivers aged 17 to 24 are most likely to be involved in at-fault accidents
- Younger drivers are overrepresented in serious and fatal collisions
- Crash risk is highest during the first year of driving
- Behavioural factors like speeding and peer influence increase accident likelihood
- Older drivers (70+) have lower accident rates, though age-related factors still impact safety
- Middle-aged drivers (30s and 40s) are statistically the safest overall
- Insurers charge younger drivers more due to higher claims numbers
- Telematics (black box policies) are often used to monitor high-risk age groups
If you’re in a higher-risk group, improving your driving habits and comparing policies can help lower your insurance costs.
Which age group is most likely to cause a car accident in the UK?
According to road safety studies and insurance claim data, drivers aged 17 to 24 are the most likely to cause a car accident in the UK. Young male drivers in particular are overrepresented in serious incidents, including collisions involving high speeds or driving under the influence.
This age group is still developing road awareness and often lacks the experience to make quick, safe decisions in challenging situations. Many accidents reported by insurers involve misjudging distances, late braking or reacting poorly to other drivers’ actions.
Why are younger drivers involved in more accidents?
The main reason is inexperience. For most 17 to 24-year-olds, driving is still a new skill. Many face unfamiliar road conditions, deal with distractions, or feel pressure to drive fast — especially when influenced by friends or social settings.
Other contributing factors include:
- Poor hazard perception
- Less time behind the wheel
- Overconfidence soon after passing their test
- Night-time or weekend driving with passengers
Some insurers offer telematics to help monitor and improve safe driving among younger age groups.
Do middle-aged drivers cause fewer accidents?
Yes, statistics show that drivers in their 30s, 40s and early 50s are much less likely to cause accidents. This group is considered the safest by many insurers, often enjoying lower premiums as a result.
These drivers usually have more experience, drive more cautiously and may be driving regularly for work or family, rather than for leisure. They’re also less likely to engage in risky behaviour behind the wheel.
How do older drivers compare in terms of accident risk?
Drivers aged 70 and over are involved in fewer accidents overall, especially compared to younger age groups. However, when accidents do happen, the risk of serious injury or fatality tends to be higher, mainly due to frailty or slower reaction times.
Many older drivers are cautious and limit their driving to daylight hours or shorter journeys. They may stop driving altogether if their vision, mobility or confidence starts to decline. Insurers may still review claims history and medical declarations for this group.
How does age affect your car insurance price?
Age is one of the biggest influencers on your insurance price. If you are under 25, you’re likely to pay more due to the higher chance of making a claim. Once you build experience and keep a clean driving record, your price drops significantly — usually after age 25.
Here’s a rough breakdown:
- 17–24: Highest risk, and usually the most expensive
- 25–29: Premiums start to fall with more experience
- 30–50: Lowest average prices due to safety statistics
- 70+: May see slight increases based on health and past claims
Using a comparison service and checking your options annually can still help you find a better price, regardless of age.
Do insurers treat all young drivers the same?
Not quite. While insurers generally charge more for younger drivers, they also assess your individual details — including experience, past claims, postcode and the car you drive.
If you’re under 25, you may be able to reduce your risk rating by:
- Taking a Pass Plus or other advanced driving course
- Choosing a less powerful, insurance-friendly car
- Adding an experienced named driver
- Opting for a telematics policy that tracks safe driving behaviour
These steps show insurers that you’re lower risk, which can bring your price down.
What’s the link between age and accident severity?
Younger drivers are more likely to be involved in serious or fatal accidents, particularly when driving late at night or under the influence. That’s why this group is considered high-risk.
In contrast, older drivers may experience more low-speed accidents like bumps in car parks or junctions. These incidents cost insurers less but can still impact your record if a claim is made.
In Summary
In the UK, the age group most likely to cause car accidents is 17 to 24-year-olds. Their inexperience, riskier behaviour and increased exposure to distractions all contribute to higher accident rates.
If you’re a newer driver or insuring someone younger, look at safer car models and compare policies with optional extras like telematics. You can explore different deals to get the right level of cover using our car insurance comparison service.
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