In 2023, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation reported 110,382 traffic crashes in the state of Pennsylvania, down from 2022’s 115,938 reported traffic crashes. While it’s good to see a decline, unfortunately, the number of car crashes remains high.
When you are behind the wheel, you are responsible for your vehicle. However, you can’t always control the actions of others on the road with you. One of the best ways to prepare yourself is to know the different types of car crashes to look out for.
Knowing this can help you spot what to look for to protect your safety and that of your passengers. Pike Law explains more about common types of car accidents that can occur, what to do if you’re involved in one, and how our automobile accident attorney can help you get the compensation you deserve to aid in the recovery process.
The Different Types of Automobile Accidents
Car crashes are sorted by factors like how the crash happened, where it happened, and what caused it. Based on these factors, there are ten different types of car crashes:
1. Rear-End Collisions
These accidents occur when one vehicle crashes into the rear of another, often due to following too closely or sudden braking. They commonly happen in heavy traffic or at stoplights and can cause serious injuries like whiplash, especially at high speeds. Maintaining a safe distance and staying attentive can help prevent rear-end collisions.
2. Side-Impact Collisions (T-Bone)
T-bone accidents occur when one car hits the side of another, forming a T-shape. These are common at intersections, usually caused by running red lights or ignoring stop signs. The impact can lead to significant injuries, especially to those on the struck side. Following traffic signals and driving cautiously can reduce these accidents.
3. Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions are one of the most dangerous types of automobile accidents, often resulting in injuries or fatalities. They happen when the front ends of two vehicles collide, often due to one crossing the center line or driving the wrong way. Staying alert and in your lane is crucial to avoid such crashes.
4. Sideswipe Accident
Sideswipe accidents occur when two parallel vehicles touch or scrape, usually due to improper lane changes or failing to check blind spots. These can range from minor scrapes to severe collisions where a vehicle flips over. Proper signaling and vigilance can prevent sideswipe accidents.
5. Single-Vehicle Accidents
When there’s only one vehicle involved in an accident, it’s referred to as a single-vehicle accident. This type considers bicycles and non-road-worthy vehicles as vehicles, so hitting a bike would not be considered a single-vehicle accident. Typically what happens is that the car collides with a barrier, a tree, or another object, or rolls over.
6. Multi-Vehicle Pile-Ups
These accidents involve more than two cars and often happen on busy highways, where one collision leads to a chain reaction. Poor visibility, distractions, and high speeds are common contributing factors. Keeping a safe distance, reducing speed in heavy traffic, and staying alert can help prevent these complex and dangerous accidents.
7. Hit-and-Run Accidents
Hit-and-run accidents occur when one party leaves the scene without exchanging information, which is illegal and can complicate insurance claims. It’s crucial to report the accident immediately and gather as much information as possible, including witness statements, to help law enforcement track down the responsible party.
8. Rollover Accidents
Rollover accidents happen when a vehicle flips over onto its side or roof, more common with SUVs and trucks due to their higher center of gravity. These accidents can cause severe injuries and are often caused by sharp turns, speeding, or collisions. Wearing a seatbelt and avoiding sudden maneuvers are vital for minimizing risks.
9. Parking Lot Accidents
These types of automobile accidents typically involve low-speed collisions while parking or backing out but can also result from reckless driving in crowded areas. Although usually minor, parking lot accidents can still cause significant damage and injuries, particularly to pedestrians. Drivers should proceed slowly, check mirrors, and be aware of blind spots to prevent accidents.
10. Underride/Override Accidents
These accidents involve smaller vehicles sliding under larger ones (underride) or larger vehicles riding over smaller ones (override). Often occurring with trucks and trailers, these accidents are highly dangerous and can lead to severe injuries or fatalities. Installing safety features on trucks and keeping a safe distance from larger vehicles are crucial preventive measures.
Which of These Types of Car Crashes Are Most Common?
The most common types of car crashes are in descending order, as reported by NSC Injury Facts include:
- Single-Vehicle Accidents / Angle Accidents: Drivers can often lose control of their vehicle due to speeding, weather conditions, or simple driver error. They are also the leading type of automobile accident that causes death.
- Rear-end Accidents: These are the most frequent type of car accident, often resulting from distracted driving or sudden stops.
- Sideswipe Accidents: Accidents that happen during lane changes are commonly caused by a driver not appropriately checking their blind spot. Of the top four, this type of car accident causes the least amount of deaths.
- Head-on Accidents: While common, these are the least common of the four types because both drivers are facing each other. Driving into oncoming traffic is not a common mistake, but it only takes one driver to cause this type of accident. Of the four types, it causes the second most deaths.
What Should You Do If You’re in an Automobile Accident That Wasn’t Your Fault?
The first thing you should do is check yourself and your passengers for any injuries. If anyone needs it, exchange contact information and seek medical attention. Then, document the accident as much as possible if you are able after contacting the proper authorities. Documentation can include:
- Pictures of the aftermath
- Medical bills and examinations
- Police reports
- Insurance bills
After gathering all documentation, keep it organized and accessible. Records such as photos, medical bills, and police reports prove the accident’s impact and strengthen your case.
Get in Touch With an Automobile Accidents Attorney
Your next step should be to contact an automobile accident attorney at Pike Law. We will review the evidence, estimate your damages, and potentially begin work on your automobile accident case.
Our team will guide you through every step of the process, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to set up a no-charge consultation.
