Did you know that there are an average of 16,500 car accidents in America every day?
It’s not uncommon to see today’s drivers juggling a phone in one hand while trying to change lanes during stop-and-go traffic. The uptick in distracted driving has contributed to more T-bone crashes, fatalities, and fender benders along U.S. highways and roadways.
Read on to learn about the most common types of collisions and some ways to avoid the headaches that come with a car crash.
Table of Contents
Head-on collisions
One of the most terrifying collisions is a head-on car crash. That’s when two vehicles heading in the opposite direction smack into each other head-on.
Head-on collisions can cause serious harm and are among the most serious types of car crashes.
Common causes of head-on collisions are driving on the wrong side of the road or when an impaired driver turns onto a one-way road in the wrong direction.
Rear-End Collisions
Fender benders, or rear-end collisions, happen when one car crashes into the car in front.
Rear-end collisions account for the vast majority of car crashes and often occur in heavy stop-and-go traffic or at a traffic light. Distracted driving is one of the main causes of this type of auto accident.
One way to avoid a rear-end collision is to make sure there is a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front. Giving yourself ample roadway to apply brakes will reduce the chances of a fender bender.
There are many collision repair services that can inspect damage from a rear-end collision and recommend repairs.
Intersection Collisions
Intersections are another frequent spot for automobile collisions and the risk for personal injury is high. Making a turn while not yielding to oncoming traffic can cause cars to collide.
Unfortunately, intersections are where the first-responders witness the majority of T-bone crashes. A T-bone collision is when one car crashes into the side of another vehicle, making the letter “T” shape.
Sideswipe Collisions
Sideswipe auto accidents are when two cars are traveling alongside each other and one veers into the path of the other and makes contact.
Often drivers are changing lanes and run into the adjacent car. One way to avoid a sideswipe accident is to check mirrors to ensure it’s safe to change lanes.
Single-Vehicle Collisions
A single-vehicle collision is when an automobile makes contact with a stationary object. It could be a fire hydrant, road barrier, fence, or road debris.
One way to avoid this is to pay attention. Avoid texting, eating, or fumbling with your phone while driving. Construction crews work at all hours and often road barriers and cones can shift traffic onto different lanes.
Drive Careful to Avoid All Types of Collisions
Every day Americans are risking their lives while on the road. Sometimes car accidents are unavoidable.
But drivers can take the wheel and feel safer by knowing about the types of collisions and ways to prevent them.
If you enjoyed this article, check out other engaging stories about cars and car care on our website.
