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Car crashes are a leading cause of injury and death worldwide. And because we often call them “accidents,” it can be easy to assume that car crashes are unpredictable, unavoidable impacts that could never be avoided. But that is far from the truth. Most of the car crash cases that I see in my Denver Personal Injury Office are entirely preventable. And some types of crashes are so common that they seem predictable.
Understanding the most common types of car crashes can help drivers take proactive steps to avoid them, enhancing road safety for everyone. This article explores the most common types of car crashes that I see in my personal injury practice, and offers some practical advice on how you can prevent them.
Rear-end collisions occur when one vehicle crashes into the back of another. These are among the most frequent accidents on the road, often resulting from tailgating or the rear driver’s failure to pay attention. Injuries can range from whiplash to more severe outcomes, especially at high speeds.
T-bone collisions happen when the side of one vehicle is hit by the front or rear of another vehicle. These accidents are particularly common at intersections and can result in significant injuries due to the limited protection provided by the sides of vehicles. The person or people who are in the car that gets hit from the side are very vulnerable.
Head-on collisions, while less common, are among the deadliest. They occur when the fronts of two vehicles collide. These crashes often result from a driver veering into oncoming traffic, possibly due to distraction, fatigue, or impairment. I’ve also seen people, who are confused about our many one-way roads, take a wrong turn and head straight into oncoming traffic. In this scenario, the people approaching the turned-around car need to do all they can to alert the driver to the mistake and give them space to turn around.
Single-vehicle accidents involve only one vehicle and can include crashes into barriers, trees, or other obstacles. Causes range from driver distraction to poor road conditions.
Multi-vehicle pile-ups are large-scale accidents involving several vehicles. These often occur on highways or freeways in poor visibility or slippery conditions. The chain-reaction nature of these crashes can make them particularly dangerous.
Rollover accidents, though less common, are often severe and can result from a variety of factors, including sharp turns at high speeds or collisions with another vehicle or obstacle. SUVs and taller vehicles are more susceptible to rollovers due to their higher center of gravity. Recently, I saw a car rollover on 8th Avenue between Monaco and Colorado Boulevard! The speed limit on that road is 30, but this car must have been going far above that speed to rollover.
Accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists can occur when drivers fail to yield, especially in urban areas and near crosswalks and bike lanes. Sadly, pedestrian hit-and-runs are becoming more and more common in Denver and it’s very scary and frustrating. If auto drivers would just proceed cautiously through intersections, we could literally save lives. It doesn’t seem like too much to aks.
Understanding and being vigilant about the most common types of car crashes is crucial for all drivers. By following the prevention tips outlined above, you can significantly reduce your risk of being involved in an accident. Remember, safe driving is not just about protecting yourself; it’s about ensuring the safety of everyone on the road. If you’ve been injured in a Denver car crash and need advice, please call or text The O’Sullivan Law Firm today. 303-388-5304
