A car accident is an unnerving event and it can be hard to think calmly and clearly when you’re involved in one. Understanding the different types of car accidents and how liability is determined will help you in those stressful times. 

As your car accident law firm, we’re here to provide clarity and guidance on these matters. Today we are discussing the various categories of car accidents and what steps you should take if you find yourself in one.

Rear-End Collisions

This is the highest occurring type of car accident on US roads. A rear-end collision occurs between two vehicles, with one crashing into the back of another. 

The driver who rear-ends the other vehicle is considered at fault due to following too closely or not paying attention. However, there are exceptions, such as if the front driver suddenly brakes without warning or drives recklessly.

Side-Impact Collisions

Side-impacts are also called T-bone accidents and this is when the side of a vehicle is hit by the front or rear of another vehicle. These accidents predominantly happen at intersections and can cause serious injuries. 

Liability in these cases usually falls on the driver who failed to yield for the right of way or ran a red light.

Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions are less common but are very dangerous. The injuries can range from mild to severe, sometimes fatal. A head-on event is when the fronts of two vehicles collide full-on or partially. 

Liability is determined after an investigation into factors such as driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, distracted driving, reckless driving, or incorrect lane usage.

Multi-Vehicle Pileups

Multi-vehicle pileups are even more infrequent. Multi-vehicle implies three or more cars are involved. These accidents occur mostly on freeways and highways and can be due to adverse weather conditions, sudden braking, runaway vehicles, or chain-reaction crashes. 

The allocation of liability is very complex in these scenarios. Each driver’s actions are carefully investigated to determine their level of fault. This makes legal representation an absolute necessity.

Liability and Legal Implications

In the USA, liability for car accidents varies from state to state. Additionally, comparative negligence laws in some states allow for shared fault, meaning your compensation might be reduced based on your percentage of fault in the accident.

Steps to Take After an Accident

• Safety and Calling for Help - Ensure the safety of everyone in your vehicle and others involved, check for injuries, and call emergency services. Move vehicles out of traffic if possible to prevent further accidents. If there is a fatality, vehicles may not be moved.

• Document the Scene - Gather relevant information at the scene. Document and take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and visible injuries. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other drivers and get witness details.

• Seek Medical Attention - Regardless of whether you feel okay, pay a visit to your doctor. Some injuries aren’t always immediately apparent and medical records are incredibly important for personal injury claims. 

• Call Your Car Accident Law Firm - Your lawyer will provide invaluable help. They will help gather evidence, navigate and negotiate insurance claims, ensuring that your rights are protected.

Been in an accident? Get expert help from our car accident law firm. Call us today!