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Absent-minded drivers take their toll

Almost half of all crashes on Australian roads could be averted if drivers simply paid more attention, according to insurer AAMI’s annual Crash Index.

It says almost 30% of crash-related claims result from front-to-rear collisions, carrying an average repair bill of $2700.

The survey shows basic inattention contributes to 44% of all car collisions, followed by speeding (17%), fatigue (11%) and alcohol (9%).

Almost one in six collisions (18%) involve stationary objects such as a pole or parked car. These crashes on average cost over $1800.

Crash statistics aren’t helped by the 34% of drivers who admit to driving despite knowing their breath alcohol limit is above .05.

Spokesman Geoff Hughes says AAMI paid nearly $500 million in crash-related claims last year, with more than 15% of policyholders being involved in accidents.