Car accidents are, unfortunately, all too common. According to statistics, 65 motor vehicle accidents take place every day in Wisconsin alone. And while some accidents are due to factors beyond your control, many tend to occur due to human error.
Here are some of the most common types of car accidents and how you can avoid them.
1. Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions are among the most common type of car accidents, accounting for 29% of all crashes in 2019. They typically happen when one driver follows another too closely and doesn’t have time to stop when the lead car brakes.
To avoid rear-end collisions, you should always leave a safe following distance between your car and the one in front of you. If you are going 40 mph, you should leave four car lengths between you and the lead car.
2. Side-Impact Collisions
Side-impact collisions, also known as T-bone accidents, usually happen when one car crashes into the side. They can be especially dangerous because they often result in serious injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries.
To avoid side-impact collisions, you should always yield the right of way to oncoming traffic, even if you have the green light. It would help if you were extra cautious when driving in areas where visibility is limited, such as intersections or parking lots.
3. Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions are among the most severe car accidents and often result in fatalities. They typically happen when one driver crosses into oncoming traffic or drifts off the road into oncoming traffic.
To avoid head-on collisions, you should always stay in your lane and be aware of oncoming traffic. You should also avoid driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, impairing your ability to make sound decisions, and staying in your lane.
4. Single-Car Accidents
Single-car accidents are usually caused by driver error, such as speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence. They can often be prevented by simply paying attention to the road and following the road rules.
If you find yourself in a single-car accident, there are some things you can do to minimize the damage. First, if it’s safe to do so, move your car to the side of the road. Then, turn on your hazard lights and call for help. Once help arrives, exchange insurance information with the other driver and file a police report.
5. Multi-Car Accidents
One driver’s careless driving usually causes multi-car accidents. For example, if a driver rear-ends another car, that car may then hit the car in front of it, resulting in a multi-car accident.
Multi-car accidents can often be avoided by following the same safety precautions as you would for other types of accidents. Pay attention to the road, follow the road rules, and don’t tailgate. If you ever get in a car accident, the most important thing to do is stay calm and call for help. Once help arrives, exchange insurance information with the other driver and file a police report.
