Many car accidents occur because of driver negligence, such as distracted or drowsy driving, or traffic violations, like running a red light or speeding. These driving behaviors can lead to various types of crashes.
The most common include:
- Rear-end collisions
- T-bones
- Head-on collisions
- Sideswipes
This blog will review each type of wreck and what you can do to avoid them. Still, some crashes are unavoidable even if you practice safe and defensive driving. If you are injured in an accident caused by someone else, you could initiate a personal injury claim to seek compensation for damages.
Need help with your case in Chicago? Call McHargue & Jones, LLC at (312) 739-0000 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.
Rear-End Collisions: What they Are and How to Avoid Them
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that 2020 saw around 1,460,000 rear-end collision accidents. A rear-end collision occurs when a driver slams into the back of the car in front of them. Often, these wrecks happen when the front vehicle stops or slows down and the back vehicle either maintains its speed or brakes too late.
You can do a couple of different things to avoid a rear-end collision:
- Keep distance between you and other cars: Maintain the 3- to 4-second recommended following distance rule. If the vehicle in front of you suddenly slows or stops, the space between your two vehicles can prevent you from having to react quickly, which also decreases the chances of the car in front of you ramming into the back of your vehicle.
- Check your mirrors: Keeping your eye on the road by looking in your rear or side-view mirrors allows you to see cars coming up quickly from behind you. You can avoid being rear-ended by such drivers by changing lanes if possible. Being mindful of the other drivers can also serve as a reminder to avoid making sudden stops that the motorist might not be prepared for.
T-Bone Collisions: What They Are and How to Avoid Them
T-bone collisions typically occur when a vehicle runs a red light or stop sign at intersections. One car will be traveling through the intersection in one direction, and the other will be traveling perpendicular to that vehicle. The front end of one of the vehicles crashes into the side of the other.
To avoid a T-bone collision, you can use caution when crossing intersections. Look both ways before entering. If you’re coming to an intersection on a yellow light, slow down instead of maintaining your speed to make it through. If you’re stopped at the intersection, and your light turns green, wait a few moments before accelerating to avoid cars coming from the other direction that might run their red light.
Head-On Collisions: What They Are and How to Avoid Them
The NHTSA’s 2020 data shows that 2.1% of car accidents were head-on collisions. Although these crashes are less frequent than others, they are highly destructive and can cause serious and catastrophic injuries.
Head-on collisions occur when the front end of one car collides with the front end of another car. These wrecks can happen at various locations, such as intersections or roads without a center divider where two vehicles are traveling in opposite directions.
Avoiding head-on collisions requires constant vigilance. Keep your eyes on the road in front of you, looking out for opposite-traveling vehicles that appear to be veering into your lane. If it’s rainy or snowy, driver slower, as your visibility is reduced, and it may be harder to control your vehicle should you need to swerve to avoid the other car.
Sideswipes: What They Are and How to Avoid Them
A sideswipe occurs when two cars are driving parallel to each other. One of the vehicles might drift or suddenly cut into the other lane, causing the sides of both cars to collide.
Keep an eye on your side mirrors and windows to void a sideswipe. If you notice the car next to you getting closer to your lane or making a sudden lane change, move over or slow down if possible.
Get Help from Experienced Attorneys
Despite precautions you take on the road, an accident can still happen. If that accident is the result of another person’s negligence, you can pursue financial recovery for expenses and losses you sustained. Retain the services of a personal injury lawyer for help filing your claim.
To speak with a member of our Chicago team, please contact McHargue & Jones, LLC at (312) 739-0000.