What type of mishap accounts for the majority of accidental deaths of Navy personnel?

Motor vehicle mishaps account for the majority of accidental deaths among Navy personnel primarily due to the high involvement of service members in operating vehicles for both personal and professional reasons. The nature of Navy operations often requires personnel to travel between bases and assignment locations, leading to increased exposure to the risks associated with motor vehicle use. This includes factors like fatigue, distractions, and the inherent dangers of driving.

The prevalence of motor vehicle accidents is further compounded by the demographic of military personnel, many of whom are younger and may be more prone to risk-taking behaviors compared to the general population. This combined with the operational tempo can contribute significantly to the number of incidents, making motor vehicle mishaps the leading cause of accidental fatalities.