Charlotte, North Carolina’s largest city, sees over 20,000 traffic accidents annually, resulting in more than 7,000 injuries and around 85 fatalities in 2025 alone. As the Queen City’s population grows—up 5% since 2020—roads face increasing strain, amplifying risks from urban congestion to pedestrian hazards. This article looks at the leading causes of accidents in Charlotte in 2025, drawing on local data and offering prevention strategies for residents and visitors.

1. Distracted Driving

Distracted driving, particularly from cellphone use, tops the list, causing 30% of Charlotte crashes. Texting or scrolling diverts attention, with reaction times slowing by up to 2 seconds—enough to miss a red light or pedestrian.

• Impact: Leads to rear-end collisions and pedestrian strikes, especially in Uptown, where 40% of distracted crashes occur.

• Prevention: Use hands-free devices, as mandated by NC’s 2019 law, and apps like Life360 to block notifications while driving.

• Legal Note: Fines up to $100 apply, and evidence of distraction strengthens injury claims.

2. Speeding

Excessive speed accounts for 25% of accidents, particularly on highways like I-77 and I-85, where high traffic meets aggressive driving.

• Impact: Increases crash severity, contributing to 50% of Charlotte’s fatal accidents. Speeding in 35 mph zones often doubles stopping distances.

• Prevention: Adhere to posted limits, use cruise control on highways, and watch for CMPD’s 2025 speed cameras in school zones.

• Legal Note: NC’s contributory negligence rule may reduce claims if victims also sped.

3. Impaired Driving

Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs causes 15% of Charlotte crashes, with hotspots like South End nightlife areas.

• Impact: DUIs lead to 20% of fatalities, with BAC levels above 0.08% illegal in NC. Night and weekend crashes spike by 30%.

• Prevention: Use ride-shares like Uber or Lyft, promoted by CMPD’s 2025 “Safe Streets” campaign, and report suspected DUIs.

• Legal Note: DUI-related claims often yield higher settlements due to clear liability.

4. Pedestrian and Cyclist Incidents

Charlotte’s urban growth has increased pedestrian and cyclist accidents, comprising 10% of crashes, especially in dense areas like Uptown and NoDa.

• Impact: Poor crosswalk visibility and driver inattention cause 25% of pedestrian injuries, with 10% fatal.

• Prevention: Pedestrians should use reflective gear; drivers must yield at crosswalks. City plans $2 million for 2025 crosswalk upgrades.

• Legal Note: Contributory negligence challenges claims if pedestrians jaywalk.

5. Road and Weather Conditions

Poor road maintenance and weather contribute to 10% of accidents, with Charlotte’s aging infrastructure and sudden storms playing roles.

• Impact: Potholes on roads like Independence Boulevard and wet surfaces cause skids, with 15% of crashes weather-related.

• Prevention: Check NCDOT alerts for road repairs and drive cautiously in rain, using low beams.

• Legal Note: City liability may apply for unaddressed potholes, but proof is critical.

North Carolina’s contributory negligence rule complicates claims, requiring clear evidence to avoid blame. Settlements average $50,000-$200,000, but delays occur due to Wake County’s court backlog. 1 CMPD’s 2025 “Safe Streets Charlotte” campaign aims to cut crashes by 15% through patrols and education. Check protectpedestrians.com for pedestrians safety contents.

Understanding distracted driving, speeding, DUIs, pedestrian risks, and road conditions empowers Charlotteans to prevent accidents.