Did you know that more than 38,000 people die on US roads each year? Despite an increase in vehicle safety and road education, this number is still far too high. But do you know what the worst type of accidents are?
By knowing, you can learn how to avoid them. Read on as we discuss the worst vehicle accident you can be involved in.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]
The Head on Vehicle Accident
The head-on collision is by far the most deadly of all vehicle accidents. In fact, 57% of all road traffic deaths are from head-on collisions. They occur when one car travels towards another vehicle, and the two front sections of the car collide.
They are so deadly as very often, both vehicles are in motion when they hit head-on. Unlike many of the other crashes, there are few tactics you can take to avoid them. This is because they are always the result of careless and negligent driving.
People falling to sleep at the wheel or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol are a few reasons this may happen. When their attention is diverted, they can stray into the opposite lane causing head-on collisions.
It may also occur when a driver takes a corner at speed and loses control. They may slip into the oncoming lane, causing untold damage to the oncoming traffic.
Rollover Accident
A rollover accident is another deadly vehicle crash. Luckily, they occur less frequently than head-on collisions. It happens when one vehicle hits another with such force, it manages to flip the vehicle onto its roof, and may possibly cause it to roll further.
Taller vehicles are much more likely to roll than smaller ones, because of the displacement of weight. On these modes of transport, the center of gravity is sitting at a higher level. Trucks, vans, and SUVs are all susceptible.
Worst-case scenarios involve the vehicle rolling onto others. Passengers may get trapped inside, as doors and exit points are blocked.
There are a number of reasons vehicles may rollover. For large haulage vehicles, high winds and adverse weather could play a part. Tire blowouts can also be a cause, as can driving under the influence.
Side Impact
Side impact collisions are also known as T-Bone or broadside collisions. They happen when one car drives into the side of another, causing a T shape. It has a high rate of injury, as the sides of a vehicle offer little protection compared to the front and rear, which have a large space to buffer the impact.
These types of vehicle accidents are mostly found at intersections. They are a classic example of someone trying to beat a red light. Someone else is pulling out, following the signals, and the other person goes into the side of them.
It could also be the result of a vehicle defect or distraction. Someone may not have been able to brake or they may have been speeding. They could have been looking at a cellphone and not noticed the lights changing.
Rear-End Accidents
This accident occurs when a vehicle in front stops or reduces its speed. The driver behind does not allow themself enough time to react, and so they collide into the rear end of the other vehicle.
They account for around 29% of all vehicle crashes. As a driver, there are some ways you can reduce the likelihood of rear-end vehicle accidents. Check your tail lighting and signaling system are working regularly.
However, if you get hit from behind in your vehicle, the blame is very rarely on you. It is most likely the result of a driver not leaving enough stopping distance. This is usually three seconds gap between the cars.
You can check your own stopping distance to avoid rear-end collisions. When the car in front drives past a marker such as a road sign or tree, count to three. It should take you three seconds or more to hit the same marker, and if it is before then you must increase the stopping distance.
Multi-Vehicle Pile-Up
Collisions between two cars can be dangerous enough. However, very often other vehicles can become involved. They may not see the crash that has already happened or notice it too late and thus become part of the incident themselves.
This can be dangerous because one vehicle could suffer multiple impacts, increasing the risk of injury. They can also cause lots of problems for other road users, as police have lots of mess to clear up and multiple vehicle accident reports to complete.
The biggest multi-vehicle pile-up occurred took place on November 3rd, 2002. It occurred south of Los Angeles on the California Interstate 10. Involving 216 vehicle its caused 41 injuries and astonishingly, no fatalities.
The incident began at 7:00 am. A heavy fog had reduced visibility on the road. This caused a truck to plow through the concrete divider, blocking up both directions on the interstate. Vehicles would approach and not see the crash until too late, piling up cars in the morning traffic.
This resulted in the closing of a two-mile stretch of highway. It took them until late afternoon to clear the wreckage.
Vehicle Accident Avoidance
Avoiding a vehicle accident is not just a case of safe driving. You have to be aware of other road users and their intentions. Make sure you stay within the speed limit and drive safely.
If you find yourself in a vehicle accident, the SSM law group should be your first stop for representation. We have experience in a number of areas covering the Orlando area. Contact us here, and let us get the compensation you deserve.
