Car accidents can quickly happen in many different and unexpected way. Whether it’s a minor rear-end collision in traffic or a serious rollover at high speeds, knowing the different accident types can help you understand the risks of driving. If you are injured in a car accident, a law firm such as J. Alexander Law Firm can help you navigate your legal options and explain factors that may affect a potential claim.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) categorizes motor vehicle crashes. Categories include rear-end, head-on, T-bone, sideswipe, angle, and more. While terminology can vary between states, the general meanings are similar. This article aims to help you understand these categories and what you should know.
Head-on Collision Between Cars
A head-on collision occurs when two vehicles strike each other directly, front facing, almost always while traveling in opposite directions. The NHTSA identifies this type of crash by finding that the initial damage occurred in the front of at least one vehicle.
Typically, a head-on collision is serious and can require medical intervention. The forces involved in head-on collisions are significant and potentially fatal. This type of crash commonly occurs when a vehicle crosses the center line, traveling in the wrong direction, or leaving its lane into opposing traffic.
Rear-End Collisions and Accidents
This type of crash occurs when the front of a vehicle strikes the rear of another. Rear-end collisions are among the most common types of car accidents and often occur at intersections, in heavy traffic, or when a vehicle suddenly begins to slow down or stop completely.
A small lapse in judgment or hesitation can easily cause a rear-end collision. Vehicle damage can be minor, but sudden impact can also cause severe bodily harm.
T-Bones & Side-Impact Collisions
This type of crash is also commonly called a broadside, or side-impact collision. This type of crash occurs when the front or rear of one vehicle collides with the side of another. A T-bone accident commonly occurs when a vehicle fails to stop at an intersection or stop sign, causing an already moving vehicle to hit it.
As with many car collisions, the damage inflicted can vary greatly. Depending on the side and occupants, and because there is less material protecting the driver and passenger on the sides, bodily harm can be minor or severe.
Angle Collisions and Sideswipes
This type of collision occurs when two cars traveling in the same direction collide side by side. This can happen when a driver changes lanes without double-checking or accidentally drifts out of their lane.
Like sideswipes, angle collisions can happen in similar circumstances, but they more often occur at intersections and other crossing points, such as roundabouts. Official classifications can vary between same-direction sideswipes, opposite-direction sideswipes, and angle crashes, depending on the circumstances of the accident.
Single-Vehicle Accidents (SVA) and Rollovers
Not all car accidents and collisions involve two or more vehicles. A single-vehicle accident is caused by a car striking a fixed object, leaving the roadway, or overturning. Depending on the objects and speeds involved, the severity of a single-vehicle accident can differ.
Rollovers can occur during all types of accidents, whether single-vehicle or multiple, and can cause serious damage. This type of crash happens when two cars strike each other, when a vehicle hits a guard rail, when a driver turns too sharply at speed, or when a vehicle leaves the roadway and enters steep terrain.
Hit-and-Run Accidents
A hit-and-run accident occurs when any of the above accidents happen, and one of the parties flees without providing the information or assistance required that is required by the state or law. Typically, a hit-and-run makes things more difficult because the abandoning party cannot be identified immediately.
Depending on the circumstances of the accident and applicable laws, any information may assist a hit-and-run investigation.
Bottom Line
Regardless of the type of collision, simply knowing the common causes of the most frequent car accidents can help you become much more defensive and responsible driver. Taking the right steps after a collision can ease the process and help you get the assistance you deserve.
While each accident differs, building a paper trail through police reports, photographs, damage documentation, witness statements, medical records, and more can significantly support the investigation. If you’re involved in an accident that has resulted in major injuries or financial losses, contact an experienced attorney to help provide assistance to you throughout the entire car accident process.
