According to recent data, there are about 6.6 million car accidents in the US every year. And, unfortunately, this number is likely to rise. Each year, there are more drivers and vehicles on the road, increasing the chances of traffic collisions.
However, there are only a few different ways in which these millions of car accidents happen. So, if drivers can understand the nature of these accidents, they can do more to prevent them.
That’s why we created this guide. Below, we explain the most common types of car accidents and what causes them. Read on to learn what you need to know.
1. Single-Vehicle Accidents
Sometimes a vehicle collides with an object, person, or animal without hitting another vehicle. These are called single-vehicle accidents.
Often, this happens when a driver swerves into something while trying to avoid hitting something else. For example, if a child suddenly runs in front of a car, the driver may swerve to the side and hit a tree. These accidents are also common when a driver falls asleep at the wheel.
2. Multi-Vehicle Accidents
Most multi-vehicle accidents involve two vehicles. But when an accident happens during heavy traffic conditions, it can damage several vehicles.
Usually, this is because the vehicles are following too closely. They can’t stop quickly enough to avoid hitting the other crashed vehicles.
Always allow plenty of space between your car and the vehicle in front of you because these pileups happen very fast. For instance, a truck driver might fall asleep at the wheel, flip the truck, and cause a fatal multi-vehicle accident.
In fact, there are thousands of these accidents every year. Learn more on fullertoncaraccidentlawyer.com.
3. Head-On Collisions
A head-on collision is when two cars are driving toward each other and the front ends of their vehicles collide. At high speeds, this is the worst type of car accident there is. These usually happen when a car crosses the yellow line into oncoming traffic.
4. Rear-End Collisions
A rear-end collision is when one driver crashes into the back of another car. Again, these are often caused by following too closely.
But they also happen when drivers aren’t paying attention. That is, they don’t notice a slow or stopped car in front of them until it’s too late.
5. Side-Impact Collisions
A side-impact collision occurs when the front of one car hits the side of another. Because the two cars form a “T” shape, these are also called T-bone accidents.
Side-impact collisions usually happen at intersections or in parking lots when drivers aren’t paying attention. These accidents have a high rate of injury and death since most cars have limited protection against side impacts.
Avoid These Common Types of Car Accidents
Before you go, please take a moment to reflect on what you learned here today. Memorize the tips in this guide so you can avoid these types of car accidents in the future.
For related content, check out our Legal blog. There, you’ll find additional information on car accident settlements, DUI laws, and more.
