It’s a fact of life; accidents happen. When they occur in a vehicle, the results are varied: a lot of paperwork, property damage, and even bodily injuries. At Jeff GOULD Law, we know that accidents can happen at any time and to anyone. In fact, studies show the average person can expect to be involved in three to four traffic accidents in their lifetime. Another fact to note is that most car accidents happen within 25 miles of a person’s home. That’s why we wanted to provide you with a list of the most common types of accidents and the ways in which you can avoid them.
Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions are by far the most common type of automobile accident. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that this type of collision accounts for almost half of all two-vehicle crashes. Although rear-endings are common, they tend to be more minor crashes. But no matter how minor, they can still result in whiplash, or other injuries, and vehicle damage. A rear-end accident occurs when one vehicle collides into the back of another, a crash that can often be avoided. The best way to prevent rear endings is to always keep a safe following distance between yourself and the car in front of you. Other ways to minimize risk include keeping your eyes on the road at all times and minimizing distractions while driving. It only takes a few seconds of inattentive driving to rear-end the driver in front of you. Pay attention to your rearview mirror, too, in case the motorist behind you approaches too quickly.
Cross-Traffic, Side Impact Accidents
These accidents are commonly referred to as a “T-bone” accident. Side impacts account for nearly 28.9 percent of all US accidents. They also account for a whopping 20.7 percent of the accident-related fatalities, making them the second deadliest crash type. Part of the reason for this is structural. Vehicles are designed with a bumper system and crumple zones to protect them from front or rear collisions. However, the side of a vehicle does not come with this protection. In a side-impact accident, the car striking hits with its bumper, the car impacted will generally face more severe damage and its occupants more potential injuries. The most common cause of these accidents is driver negligence, like running a red light or stop sign, or making a left turn without yielding to oncoming traffic. The best way to avoid them is to be attentive and follow traffic laws. To prevent yourself from being a victim, use extra caution when crossing through intersections and be alert for signs that other drivers are distracted.
Head-on Collisions
Head-on collisions are among the deadliest types of auto accidents. Statistics reveal that these incidents account for only 2 percent of all car accidents but 10 percent of all driving fatalities. A head-on collision occurs when the front end of the vehicle hits another object. Frontal impacts can include other vehicles, animals, trees, poles, or any obstruction in the roadway. This type of crash is particularly dangerous when it involves two cars traveling in opposite directions. Even at low speeds, the force of impact is doubled. That means if two vehicles traveling at just 25 miles per hour collide, they do so with the force of hitting a wall at 50 MPH. The best way to avoid and protect yourself from frontal crashes is to follow the rules of the road as diligently as you can, and never drive while sleepy or intoxicated.
Multi-vehicle Accidents
These collisions are also referred to as pile-ups. They are a multi-vehicle collision that involves at least three cars. Like frontal-impact auto collisions, multi-vehicle pile-ups are markedly more dangerous. Vehicles can impact each other at different angles, and it can be difficult to extract injured motorists in a timely manner. Multi-vehicle automobile accidents are becoming a more common event, with studies placing them at almost 50% of all collisions. Considering how manufacturers are involved, injuries can range from whiplash to paralysis and even death. Some causes of these accidents include fatigue, speed, recklessness, environmental conditions, distraction, medical impairment, and intoxication. To help avoid being involved in a pile-up, never tailgate the vehicle in front of you, don’t drive while impaired or intoxicated, and never drive while distracted.
In the End
Many types of accidents occur on our roadways. Educating yourself about each type can help you reduce your risk of being involved in one. Even though we have looked at some of the most common types of car crashes and offer some preventative tips. Unfortunately, even with the best preventative measures, there is no guarantee that you will not be involved in a collision. Reckless drivers cause accidents every day, and if you’ve been involved in one, the other driver may be liable for the damages caused. An experienced attorney like Jeff GOULD Law can help you hold them responsible. If you or someone you know has been involved in an accident, contact us today. Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be absolutely exhausting, and we are the Attorney in Your Corner.
DISCLAIMER: The information on this blog/site is NOT, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. It is for general informational use only. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. Further, this information does not create an attorney-client relationship.