Understanding the Types of Car Accidents

There are various types of car accidents, and people need to understand each one to prevent further accidents.

From rear-end collisions to rollover accidents, we provide an in-depth introduction to the types of car accidents and the injuries and damages that may result from them.

Types of Car Accidents

This section covers common car accident types and their unique characteristics, causes, and how to prevent yourself from ending up in one.

Head-on Collisions

A head-on collision is when the front ends of two vehicles collide with each other. Head-on collisions are among the most dangerous types of car accidents, often ending in serious injuries or even fatalities.

Common causes of head-on collisions are:

• Distracted driving

• Fatigue

• Impaired driving

• Overtaking a vehicle on a two-lane road

The best way to prevent yourself from being involved in a head-on car accident is by driving attentively, following speed limits, and avoiding risky driver maneuvers.

Rear-end Accidents

Rear-end collisions, which occur when one vehicle strikes the back of another, are among the most common types of car accidents.

While rear-end collisions are considered less severe by popular opinion, they can still cause significant injuries to areas such as the neck, spine, and head.

Common causes of rear-end accidents are:

• Tailgating

• Wet roads

• Poor weather conditions

• Distracted driving

Maintaining a safe following distance is the number one way to prevent yourself from being involved in a rear-end collision.

Sideswipe Accidents

Sideswipe accidents occur when the side of one vehicle collides with the side of another vehicle. Car crashes in which a sideswipe occurs usually result in minor vehicle damage and injuries.

However, sideswipe accidents can become serious if the driver loses control of their vehicle, hits other drivers, or crashes into a wall, ditch, or off the road.

A Common cause of sideswipe accidents is:

• Drivers changing lanes without checking blind spots or signaling

Checking mirrors, blind spots, and singling are sure ways to prevent a sideswipe car crash.

Multi-Vehicle Accidents

A multi-vehicle accident is where three or more vehicles are involved in a car accident.

Multiple vehicles often collide on busy highways or in inclement weather conditions, where drivers cannot see roads, traffic signs, or other vehicles.

Traffic accidents with many vehicles can be hard to avoid due to the multiple collisions and cars involved. However, the best ways to avoid being involved in a multi-vehicle crash are:

• Avoid going at high speeds in adverse weather

• Have a passenger check for unusual traffic build-ups by using a maps app such as Apple or Google Maps

• Maintain a one-car following distance

T-bone Accidents

T-bone or side impact accidents happen when the front of one car collides with the side of another, forming a "T" shape. T-bone accidents often occur at intersections and can result in severe injuries at high speeds.

Common causes of a side impact accident are:

• Driver error (Failure to yield)

• Running red lights

To prevent a T-bone accident, drivers should be aware when performing left-hand turns, u-turns, and merging lanes and obey all traffic signs and signals.

Rollover Accidents

A vehicle rollover accident occurs when a car tips onto its side or roof. This type of car accident can be fatal due to the risk of multiple rolls and ejections. In addition, the occupants and driver may hit each other or be hit by objects inside the car.

Rollover accidents commonly occur in larger vehicles such as SUVs, vans, and trucks. Common causes of rollover crashes are:

• Turning at an excessive speed

• Driving with a heavy load

To prevent rollover auto accidents, larger vehicle drivers should reduce turning speed and ensure their vehicle is properly loaded.

Single-Vehicle Accidents

Many think car collisions require two or more vehicles; however, single-vehicle crashes are the exception.

A single-car accident can be caused by:

• Drowsy driving

• Driving Recklessly

• Driver inattention

• Driver overcorrection

Although single-vehicle accidents are considered less severe than other car accidents, they can still result in injuries and fatalities.

What Causes Car Accidents

Understanding what is causing accidents in the U.S. is vital to lowering the amount of car wrecks and fatalities. Some common causes are:

• Distracted Driving: If a driver is engaged in anything else besides driving, there is a risk of hitting other cars.

• Speeding: Drivers who don't follow the posted speed limit contribute to many accidents because their high speeds make maneuvering around a fixed object or vehicle difficult.

• Drunk Driving: Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is highly negligent and dangerous as DUI driving impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction time.

• Reckless Driving: Reckless behavior such as road rage, running red lights, or changing lanes without signaling is a sure way to get into an accident.

• Weather Conditions: Adverse weather conditions such as rain, snow, fog, and ice can make for hazardous driving conditions and lead to accidents if drivers aren't careful.

• Driver Fatigue: A tried driver is a bad driver. Driving tried can be compared to drunk driving, with its dangers.

As a car accident law firm, we recommend you don't hesitate to spread information on the common causes of car accidents to your children and relatives so they may have safer driving experiences.

The Damaging Effects of Car Accidents

Auto accidents can inflict damage physically, emotionally, and financially. We cover all the damages that may arise from car accidents below.

Physical Injuries

The resulting injuries from a car accident can range from minor cuts and bruises to severe life-changing injuries such as paralysis. Physical injuries resulting from car accidents are:

• Whiplash

• Broken Bones

• Head Injuries

• Spinal Cord Injuries

• Internal Injuries

Emotional Effects

Along with physical injuries, auto accidents can cause significant psychological damage that can be long-lasting. Some emotional effects could be:

• PTSD

• Depression

• Anxiety

• Phobias

• Grief

Finanical Damage

Due to the medical bills and property damage costs, car accidents often come with financial burdens. A few financial impacts can be:

• Medical Expenses

• Lost Wages

• Personal Property Repair of Replacement

• Legal Fees

Do You Need a Nevada Car Accident Lawyer?

Are you looking for a Las Vegas car accident attorney to deal with the insurance company, protect your rights, and obtain maximum compensation on your behalf?

If so, the Rodney Okano Car Accident Lawyer Law Firm has over 20 years of experience doing just that. We have worked with hundreds of clients and obtained the compensation they deserve using a sophisticated legal process.

To speak with a car accident attorney today and hold the other driver responsible for your injuries and damages, call (702) 566-3600.

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