Top Crash Trends: Insights from AAMI Data

2

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

The Suncorp-owned insurer's study, covering a period from 2014 to the previous year, unveils some startling insights. Surprisingly, drivers aged 65 and above emerge as the primary offenders in crashes, making up 26% of total incidents, the most by any age group.

When it comes to timing, Fridays tops the list, making it the most accident-prone day, accounting for 16% of weekly crashes. In contrast, weekends are relatively safer. The dangerous hours fall between 1pm and 4pm, highlighting a critical window for caution.

Crash types also exhibit notable patterns. The infamous "nose-to-tail" collisions dominate, responsible for 26% of significant accidents. Following closely are situations where drivers fail to give way, accounting for 19%, and incidents involving parked cars at 17%.

Geographically, Plenty Road in Bundoora, a northeast suburb of Melbourne, is infamously notable for vehicular mishaps, making it Australia's modt notorious road in terms of crash frequency.

Leah James, AAMI’s motor claims manager, pointed out, “The top crash spots in each state and territory are notoriously known for accidents. They are mostly busy roads or key thoroughfares crossing industrial areas, educational hubs, shopping districts, or central business districts."

“In all states, except Tasmania, the leading hotspot has retained its hazardous reputation for more than half of the past decade,” she adds.

The study’s primary goal, according to James, is to elevate awareness and educate Australians on safe driving practices by identifying the most common times, places, and causes of crashes. “While we've seen myriad changes and technological advancements in vehicle design since the start of our Crash Index in 1994, the Decade of Driving Report unfortunately shows that our driving behaviors have not evolved significantly,” James concludes.

The data underscores the importance of continuous education and adaptation to modern-day driving challenges, amplifying the necessity for vigilance even with advanced vehicle technologies. By addressing the highlighted hotspots and times, drivers can potentially mitigate risks and enhance road safety.

For the complete findings, more details are available in the AAMI's decade-spanning investigation published in their Decade of Driving Report.

Published:Tuesday, 24th Sep 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Clear

IAG CEO Predicts Ongoing Insurance Premium Rises

31 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

Insurance Australia Group (IAG) has reported a significant 91% increase in net profit for the first half of the 2024-2025 financial year, reaching $778 million. Despite this profit surge, IAG's CEO, Nick Hawkins, has indicated that insurance premiums are expected to continue rising, though at a more moderate pace compared to previous years. ([abc.net.au](https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-02-14/iag-ceo-nick-hawkins-warns-of-further-premium-increases/104931074?utm_source=openai)) - read more

Rising Insurance Costs Challenge Australian Hospitality Sector

31 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian hospitality industry is currently facing significant challenges due to escalating insurance premiums. Business owners report substantial increases in their insurance costs, which are becoming one of the largest expenses alongside wages, rent, and the rising cost of goods. ([au.finance.yahoo.com](https://au.finance.yahoo.com/news/aussie-hotel-owner-reveals-insane-48000-cost-behind-alarming-small-businesses-trend-040048130.html?utm_source=openai)) - read more

ACT Businesses Confront Higher Insurance Premiums Compared to NSW

31 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Legislative Assembly has initiated an inquiry into the rising costs of insurance premiums within the territory, particularly focusing on the hospitality sector. Recent data indicates that businesses in the ACT are paying significantly higher insurance premiums compared to their counterparts in New South Wales (NSW). ([region.com.au](https://region.com.au/why-are-act-business-insurance-costs-much-higher-than-in-nsw-inquiry-to-seek-answers/841410/?utm_source=openai)) - read more

Australian Insurers Under Fire for Steep Premium Increases

30 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

In recent times, Australian insurance companies have come under intense scrutiny due to substantial increases in premiums, even as they report record profits. This trend has raised concerns among consumers and policymakers alike, prompting calls for enhanced transparency and competition within the industry. - read more

Rising Insurance Costs in Northern Australia Despite Reinsurance Efforts

30 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

Homeowners in Northern Australia are confronting significant increases in insurance premiums, even after the implementation of the federal government's cyclone reinsurance pool aimed at reducing costs in cyclone-prone regions. This development raises questions about the effectiveness of current measures and the ongoing challenges in making insurance affordable for residents in high-risk areas. - read more

Click for more Insurance News