Car accidents occur all over the world every day, and as a result, they rarely make the news except for traffic reports. When a celebrity or other popular figure is involved, the car crash suddenly grabs headlines around the world.
Who can forget the tragic wreck in 1997 that claimed Princess Diana’s life or the fatal head-on collision in 2013 that killed actor Paul Walker? According to lawyers at Roman Austin, ‘While celebrities represent a small fraction of car accident victims in the U.S., their experiences serve as a potent reminder, always prioritize safety and abstain from alcohol behind the wheel.’
This advice can help prevent car accidents and maybe even save your life. So, what are the worst types of car accidents? Chances are you’re aware of some of them, but learning a little more can help keep you safe on the road.
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Pile-up Collisions
Source: personalinjurybakersfield.com
Pile-ups are a type of car accident that makes the local news, primarily for the disruption the accident causes for commuters. The car wreck can tie up traffic for hours, sometimes in both directions, if the accident occurs on a multi-lane highway.
A pileup occurs when multiple vehicles, more than two, are involved, and the majority happen on busy interstates and highways. The chain reaction typically starts when a vehicle in front suddenly slows down or brakes, then the vehicle behind it hits the car’s rear, and the chain goes on from there. Some highway pileups can involve over twenty vehicles, including large semis and delivery trucks.
Along with damage to multiple vehicles ranging from severe to dented fenders, driver and passenger injuries are also common. Unfortunately, the first vehicle hit also tends to sustain the most damage. While it’s tempting to get out of a vehicle to survey the damage, the best advice is to stay inside your car and wait for emergency personnel to arrive on the scene.
Head-on Car Wrecks
Head-on collisions are frightening for both vehicles, and this type of accident is precisely what the name implies—two cars hit each other head-on, often resulting in severe damage and potentially life-threatening injuries.
This type of collision is more common at night when visibility is decreased; maybe an oncoming driver may have forgotten to turn their headlights on, making them virtually impossible to spot until it’s too late to avoid a potential crash. Another cause is drivers going the wrong way, where maybe they missed the directional signage or are driving in an unfamiliar area. Unfamiliarity is a common reason drivers find themselves going the wrong way in a lane.
Unfortunately, impairment from alcohol is another reason. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the number of deaths related to drunk driving accidents saw a 14% increase between 2020 and 2021, which covers all types of alcohol-related car accidents, including head-on collisions.
Simply refraining from drinking alcohol, ensuring your headlights are on, and paying attention to road signs can dramatically lower your chances of being involved in a head-on car wreck.
Roll-Over Car Accidents
Source: johnfoy.com
Vehicle rollover accidents can be caused by several factors. Vehicle impact can cause a car to roll over, along with a driver overcorrecting the steering to avoid an obstacle in the road. Larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs are often more prone to rollovers due to their higher center of gravity.
Something you may not be aware of is some auto manufacturers install safety systems to minimize damage and injuries in front, rear, and side impact accidents, but few are working on ways to help prevent vehicle rollovers.
If you want to learn more about your vehicle’s safety rating, the NHTSA has a helpful website. You can search for vehicles with 5-star safety ratings and other valuable information. Did you know car dealers are also required to identify vehicles with 5-star safety ratings? Look for the label by the car’s price sticker.
Side Impact or T-Bone Accidents
Whether you call it a side impact or a T-bone accident, the end result is the same. Another vehicle hits the side of another car. The point of impact can be on either the driver or passenger door.
A side impact collision typically sends one or both vehicles spinning out of control. In these kinds of accidents, rollovers can occur, and other vehicles may even become involved in the accident. The collision can also send one or both vehicles into a stationary object like a guard rail or concrete support pole.
The damage to one or both vehicles is usually severe, and injuries are common. The type of injuries can vary depending on vehicle speed and if the car careens into another obstruction along the way.
Side impact accidents typically occur in intersections, where a driver may turn illegally or run through a red light or stop sign. The best advice is to always pay attention and check in all directions before crossing an intersection.
Off the Road Accidents
Sometimes, running off the road only results in a little gravel being kicked up; the vehicle’s paint may get a little scratched up, but the damage is minimal. As for injuries, you’re only left shaken and a little upset.
Unfortunately, this type of accident can also easily be more serious, which is especially true when you’re traveling at a high rate of speed. Running off the road at 60 mph+ can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles easily, and the car may even flip and roll over in the process. When this occurs, injuries and damages are usually much more severe.
Even though run-off accidents only involve one vehicle, they can also be some of the most severe. These kinds of accidents are also not limited to just a vehicle forcing another off of the road; they can also occur when a driver strikes a stationary object, like a light pole or mailbox.
Contact an Attorney Anytime You’re Involved in a Car Accident
Your accident may not garner worldwide attention like a celebrity car wreck, but you still want to ensure your legal rights are always protected. Regardless of who is the at-fault driver or if you’re the only one involved, it’s also best to seek legal advice in these situations.
Contacting an accident attorney in these situations will help ensure you receive adequate compensation or have the protection you may need as a negligent driver.
