The Most Common Types of Car Accidents—And How to Avoid Them

Car accidents are, unfortunately, all too common. In 2016 alone, there were nearly 6 million car accidents in the United States. While some of these accidents are due to factors beyond our control, such as poor weather conditions, many are the result of human error. Knowing the most common types of car accidents can help you be more aware of potential hazards on the road and avoid them.

Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end collisions are, by far, the most common type of car accident. They occur when one vehicle rear-ends another that is either stopped or moving slowly. Rear-end collisions often happen because drivers are not paying attention or following too closely. You can avoid rear-ending someone by paying attention to the road and leaving enough space between you and the car in front of you.

Rollover Crashes

Rollover crashes tend to be some of the most dangerous types of car accidents. They often occur when a driver loses control of their vehicle, causing it to tip over onto its side or roof. These types of accidents are most common in vehicles with a high center of gravity, such as SUVs and trucks. The best way to avoid rollover crashes is to drive carefully and avoid sudden movements.

Side-Impact Collisions

Side-impact collisions—also known as T-bone accidents—happen when the front end of one vehicle hits the side of another. These types of accidents commonly occur at intersections when one driver fails to yield the right of way or runs a red light. You can protect yourself from side-impact collisions by being cautious at intersections and always yielding the right of way when appropriate.

No one wants to be in a car accident, but unfortunately, they happen all too often. By being aware of the most common types of car accidents and taking steps to avoid them, you can help keep yourself and your loved ones safe on the road. If you are involved in a car accident and sustained injuries, find yourself an experience personal injury attorney that can help you seek compensation for your injuries.