Accident Waiting to Happen – Meaning and Examples

Have you ever seen a wobbly ladder or a messy, cluttered staircase? That is an accident waiting to happen. This common idiom describes a very dangerous situation where something bad is very likely to occur. Learning accident waiting to happen will help you warn others about potential dangers.

What Does “Accident Waiting to Happen” Mean?

An “accident waiting to happen” is a situation that is clearly dangerous and will probably cause harm, injury, or damage soon.

Think of it like this: A toy left on the stairs is a hazard. It is an accident waiting to happen because someone will likely trip on it.

Remember, it is not for a random accident. It is for a predictable danger that people can see.

When to Use It

You can use this idiom to point out obvious risks in many situations.

• At Home: “That frayed electrical cord is an accident waiting to happen.”
• On the Road: “That car with bald tires is an accident waiting to happen.”
• At Work: “All these boxes blocking the exit are an accident waiting to happen.”

The tone is usually concerned, warning, or critical. It is used in informal and neutral conversations.

Example Sentences

• The wet floor without a warning sign was an accident waiting to happen.
• Leaving those tools on the ladder is an accident waiting to happen.
• Their reckless business plan is an accident waiting to happen.
• That old bridge is an accident waiting to happen.

Mini Dialogue

Maria: “Look at how that truck is swerving on the road.”

David: “It’s an accident waiting to happen. Let’s keep our distance.”

Maria: “I agree. We should avoid it.”

Common Mistakes to Avoid

The main mistake is using it for a situation that is merely unlucky, rather than obviously dangerous.

❌ Don’t say: “Getting caught in the rain without an umbrella is an accident waiting to happen.” (This is just unlucky, not dangerously predictable).

✅ Do say: “Walking on an icy sidewalk in the dark without a flashlight is an accident waiting to happen.”

Final Note

This is a strong and clear phrase for talking about safety. It helps you warn people about dangers before something bad occurs. Use it to promote safety and prevent harm!