The primary cause of fatal crashes is:

The primary cause of fatal crashes is driving too fast, as excessive speed significantly reduces a driver's ability to react to hazards, increases the distance required to stop, and heightens the severity of collisions. When a driver exceeds the speed limit or drives too fast for road conditions, they face increased risk of losing control of the vehicle. High-speed crashes often result in more severe injuries or fatalities due to the greater force involved at higher velocities.

While other factors like distracted driving, night driving conditions, and driving under the influence contribute to crashes, excessive speed is a leading factor that can exacerbate those situations or stand alone as a critical safety issue. Understanding the role of speed in vehicle collisions underscores the importance of adhering to speed limits and adjusting driving behavior according to conditions, making it a central focus in safe driving practices.