Car accidents are, unfortunately, a common occurrence across the DFW metroplex. From the interstate to neighborhoods and main roads, an accident can happen just about anywhere. Understanding which types of collisions are the most common and what often causes them can help you make better decisions and reduce the risk of an accident. At the Hernandez Law Group, P.C, we know that knowledge is power. That is why our team has compiled information on the most common types of car collisions, which are: rear-end accidents, side-impact collisions, merging car accidents, and head-on collisions.
Rear-end Collisions
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, rear-end collisions make up 29 percent of all car accidents in the United States. These accidents are often the result of tailgating and distracted driving.
It is easy to get distracted while driving. Music, scenery, and talking on the phone are among many things that can preoccupy you behind the wheel. Looking away for a second and missing a red light could cause you to rear-end a vehicle.
Here are some tips on how to keep your focus on the road:
- If you need to change the radio, make sure you do so when you are at a stop.
- Wait till you get to a stop or when you are at home to address the behavior of your child in the backseat.
- Never eat or drink while operating a motor vehicle.
- Don’t text, answer, or talk on the phone while you drive. (If you have hands free-answering, use it responsibly and remember to keep your eyes on the road).
Ways to Prevent Rear-end Collisions
The easiest way to prevent rear-end collisions is to keep a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. This distance is often recommended to be two car-lengths. During inclement weather, you may want to increase this distance, as slick road conditions may lengthen the stopping distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.
Always avoid distractions, especially in high-traffic areas or times. If you are being tailgated, change lanes and allow the other vehicle to pass safely. This will help reduce the chances of the other vehicle hitting you.
Side-impact Collisions
Also known as a T-bone accident, this type of collision occurs when one vehicle slams into the side of the other. Side-impact collisions are incredibly dangerous, as there is less cushion between the occupants of the struck vehicle and the vehicle, which causes the crash. In a study done by the United States National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health, rear-seated passengers sitting on the same side as the collision were more likely to experience life-threatening or fatal injuries than any other occupant in the car.
Side-impact collisions often happen at intersections when one car has run a red light. To avoid this type of collision, it is important to look both ways before crossing an intersection. This will help you spot danger before crossing, giving you enough time to stop if you see something. Even if you have the green light, it isn’t always guaranteed that the motorists on either side of you will have stopped as well.
Merging Car Accidents
Merging car accidents occur when one traffic lane merges into another or when one vehicle is trying to merge into another lane. This usually happens as drivers are entering and exiting highways and roads.
How to Avoid Merging Collisions
Merging collisions can also occur when drivers fail to check their vehicle’s blind spots. Always make sure you check before merging into a new lane. Use your turn signal to alert other drivers of your intentions, allowing them to adjust to make room for you.
Head-on Collisions
Head-on collisions are often the most fatal. They typically occur at high-speeds, making it difficult for the safety features on your car to properly absorb the impact, leading to severe injuries of the vehicle’s occupants. Head-on collisions are often caused by one vehicle heading the wrong way on a road, but they also include non-vehicle head-on collisions, such as with animals or fixed objects such as a tree or a sign.
What Causes Head-On Collisions and How to Avoid Them
Head-on collisions concerning two vehicles are often caused by the influence of drugs or alcohol. Other possible causes could be from losing control of the vehicle, hitting a tree or a sign, or dodging an object in the road. The best way to avoid head-on collisions is to follow the law and speed limit and not participate in reckless driving behaviors. Ensure that your lights are working properly so you can see obstacles that may be in front of you, such as an animal, and avoid distractions like your phone. Awareness is the key to safe driving.
Your Trusted Car Accident Attorneys
A car accident can be devastating. Your trusted attorneys at the Hernandez Law Group, P.C. can help you claim the compensation you deserve. Don’t allow a negligent driver to destroy the life you worked so hard to build. Our team is led by Juan Hernandez, who is one of the 2% of Texas Personal Injury Attorneys who is Texas Board Certified for Personal Injury Law. Contact our team today!