New Data Reveals the Most Common Car Accident Questions Americans Ask Google — And What They Reveal About Our Fears on the Road
A new study by Bader Scott has uncovered what Americans are most curious about when it comes to car accidents — and the answers say as much about our fears as they do about our search habits.
Analyzing over 500 car accident-related queries, the study found that questions about immediate safety and survival dominate the list. The most searched query — “What do after a car accident” — sees nearly 8,841 monthly searches on average.
But the data also shows a fascination with mortality, legal help, and even history, painting a layered picture of how Americans process one of life’s most frightening events.
The Top Questions
The top 10 most Googled car accident queries are:
- What do after a car accident (8,840.83)
- Car accident what do I do (4,999.17)
- How many people die in a car accident every year (4,723.33)
- What to do after a car accident not your fault (3,745.00)
- What do when you get in a car accident (3,415.83)
- Car accident settlement how long does it take (2,415.83)
- Is it worth getting an attorney for a car accident (2,255.83)
- When was the first car accident (2,226.67)
- How long does a car accident stay on your record (1,706.67)
- Chance of getting in a car accident (1,578.33)
Together, these searches reveal three main areas of focus: immediate safety, long-term consequences, and the desire for context.
A Search for Safety
“Most people don’t realize how critical those first few minutes after a crash are,” said Seth Bader, spokesperson for Bader Scott. “Your first instinct is usually confusion — which is why so many turn to Google. But the answers are simple: secure the scene, check for injuries, and document everything.”
Mortality on the Mind
The third most common query — “How many people die in a car accident every year” — shows Americans’ preoccupation with the scale of the problem. With nearly 4,700 searches a month, it’s clear that the public wants perspective on how widespread and deadly car crashes truly are.
Legal Anxiety
One in five top searches relates to legal representation. Many want to know whether hiring a lawyer is necessary or how long settlements will take. This reflects the uncertainty drivers feel when entering negotiations with insurers — and the desire for fairness after an accident.
Niche But Telling
Smaller searches hint at under-discussed challenges, like “how to drive again after a car accident” (23 monthly searches). While less common, these questions suggest emotional and psychological recovery is an area with far less support than physical or financial recovery.
The Bigger Picture
The digital trail makes one thing clear: Americans are turning to Google as their first responder. From survival instincts to legal battles, the data shows that in moments of crisis — and curiosity — search engines are the go-to source for reassurance, facts, and next steps.
Methodology: Search volumes were gathered from Google Keyword Planner, analyzing 12 months of U.S. data across more than 500 accident-related queries.
