Driving in the United States is no walk in the park. Statistics show roughly 6 million car accidents each year, with thousands of deaths per year attributed to vehicle crashes. Whether you’re an experienced driver or one who’s just learning how to drive. It’s essential to know the types of common traffic accidents and how to stay safe.

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Common Types Of Traffic Accidents

Here is a list of the most common types of traffic accidents and how to stay safe.

Side Impact Collisions

Side impact collisions are one of the most common types of traffic accidents, especially with SUVs. With this type of collision, there is a higher chance of injury or even death for occupants in either vehicle.

To stay safe from such kinds of accidents, you should protect yourself at all times. Wear your seatbelt, make sure that all other passengers wear theirs, and avoid driving in bad weather. As seen on these Tampa car accident FAQs, you will need to find a reliable lawyer if you’re involved in a wreck. This ensures you get justice and compensation for the injuries and damages suffered.

Hitting Pedestrians

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration studies, crashes involving pedestrians were responsible for about 13% of all fatalities in 2014. And with pedestrian traffic increasing every year. This is one area that needs special attention from law enforcement agencies and drivers on the road.

To stay safe from such accidents, you should be wary of pedestrians even when they’re in designated crosswalks. By law, pedestrians have the right of way over vehicles, but most motorists and pedestrians often ignore this. So if you want to avoid hitting a pedestrian or getting into an accident that involves one, then be careful and alert at all times.

Rear-End Collisions

Highway Hypnosis is more common than you think. It’s when your mind becomes idle while driving for an extended amount of time on the road. Which can cause you to drift into another lane or even into oncoming traffic. Bad weather, distractions while driving (i.e., eating, using your phone), or fatigue are some of the factors that can cause you to drift into another lane.

One way to avoid getting into a rear-end collision is by staying focused on the road even when you’re driving for an extended period. Avoid distractions while driving and always be aware of your surroundings. You should also check your rearview mirror often to make sure no one is following too closely.

Front-End Collisions

A front-end collision is one of the most common traffic accidents every year, especially with mini-vans. This type of accident occurs when a vehicle collides with the front end of your car. In other words, it hits you from the front.

Drivers should make sure that their headlights are in good working condition and avoid driving at night to prevent being a target for another car. Also, do not engage in distracting activities while driving, such as talking on your cell phone or eating.

T-Bone Collisions

Also known as a sideswipe, a T-bone collision is another common type of accident on the road. This type of accident occurs when a car turns into your lane and crashes with your vehicle’s side or rear end before you have time to avoid it.

Drivers need to make sure that their doors are locked at all times when driving to prevent passengers from opening the door and creating a traffic hazard. Always be aware of your surroundings and avoid engaging in distracting activities while you’re behind the wheel.

Multi-Vehicle Collisions

A multi-vehicle collision is one of the most deadly and dangerous types of traffic accidents every year. With this type of accident, there are usually several cars involved. Also known as a chain reaction, these accidents happen when one vehicle crashes into another and the second car collides.

Drivers should always use their turn signals before switching lanes to prevent colliding with another vehicle. Stay alert and watch out for cars swerving or braking suddenly, as this might be a sign the car ahead has lost control of its wheels.

Underride collisions

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, about 500 people die each year due to underride collisions. An underride collision occurs when a passenger vehicle rear-ends a larger truck or semi-trailer, with safety features preventing it from crushing the car’s occupants. With the car’s main safety components crushed, passengers will likely suffer severe injuries or be ejected from the vehicle.

To avoid getting into an underride collision, you should make sure that your car’s rear end is free of any obstruction like snow, dirt, or mud to prevent it from getting crushed. Smaller cars are also not recommended at night since they might not stand a chance against large trucks on the road.

As you can see, staying alert and aware of your surroundings is crucial for staying safe on the road. Make sure to always follow traffic rules and regulations and check over your vehicle from time to time before heading out on a long drive.

If another driver’s carelessness or negligence has injured you, you may want to consider filing a personal injury claim. An auto accident attorney can help you determine who is at fault and represent your interests in court.