Loss of control, duty and responsibility, increased pressure and ticking clocks, dangers and threats

A car accident can cause all kinds of problems—from generating inconvenience to resulting in loss of life. The complexity multiplies when the character is responsible for the crash, so we've explored that option in the CAUSING A CAR ACCIDENT entry. If you're curious, however, about an accident where the character isn't to blame, read on.

Having an accident due to inclement weather (ice, snowy conditions, a sudden rainstorm decreasing visibility, etc.)
An accident caused by poor road conditions (a sinkhole opening up, a large pothole the driver didn't see, etc.)
Being hit by debris (a tree branch falling during a storm, unsecured equipment flying off a truck, parts coming off another car involved in an accident, etc.)
The character's car blowing out a tire and spinning out of control
The character swerving to avoid hitting a pedestrian or animal and driving off the road

Having to wait for the police or a tow truck to arrive
Dealing with someone who refuses to accept responsibility for the accident
A confrontational or impatient passenger making it more difficult for the character to work things out with the other character
Working with a police officer who is biased, incompetent, or unsympathetic
The accident causing the character to be late
Friction with others who were inconvenienced by the character's lateness
Increased insurance premiums
Having to temporarily find other transportation
Having to pay for car repairs
The character's children being scared by the accident and needing reassurance
Discomfort from minor injuries, such as bruises or cuts and scrapes
The character's car being less reliable or comfortable due to incurred damage
Being blamed by others—a parent or spouse, for instance—who assume the character must have been responsible