Car accidents are common across the United States and may involve other vehicles such as motorcycles, commercial vans, tractor-trailer rigs, and buses. In September, the United States Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration released a publication estimating that during the first quarter of 2021, more than 8,700 people lost their lives in car accidents. While that number is certainly alarming, there are far more people injured in car accidents that require victims to seek medical attention.
What Types of Car Accidents Are the Most Common in Atlanta?
Rear-end collisions occur more than any other type of car accident and may be minor fender-benders or major collisions that leave those involved seriously injured.
Rear-end Collisions
In most cases involving rear-end collisions, the person who struck the rear of the vehicle in front of them is responsible, although this is not always the case. Some motorists follow too closely to the vehicle in front of them, or are distracted by cell phones, eating, passengers, or other activities.
Head-on Collisions
Head-on collisions are often the most devastating in terms of injury and occur when the front of two vehicles collide. A head-on collision may be the result of someone crossing the center line on a highway, driving in the wrong direction on a one-way street, or during a turn in an intersection. Head-on collisions often involve someone driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Side Impact or “T-bone” Collisions
Sometimes referred to as intersectional collisions, a T-bone or side impact collision occurs when the front end of one car collides with the side of another vehicle. In most cases, the driver whose front end struck the other the vehicle’s side is at fault in this type of car accident. These accidents are usually the result of a driver running a red light or stop sign but can occur when one vehicle makes a left turn in oncoming traffic.
Sideswipe Collisions
Sideswipe collisions often occur on the interstate, although they may happen on any roadway with two or more lanes going in the same direction. Motorists may fail to check their blind spot before moving into the other lane or be distracted which causes them to drift over the line and sideswipe another vehicle. When a sideswipe collision occurs at high speeds, it can result in serious personal injury.
Rollover Accidents
Rollover accidents may occur when a driver takes a sharp curve at a high rate of speed. This type of accident may also be the result of a motorist colliding with another vehicle in a way that causes it to flip. In some cases, a rollover accident may be attributed to a defective component, in which case the manufacturer of the component may be held liable for compensation of injured victims.
Highway Construction Accidents
Highway construction accidents are more common than most people believe, which is not surprising given that about 20% of the highway system in the United States is undergoing construction throughout the peak season. While some accidents are the fault of motorists, others may be the fault of independent contractors and construction companies. Highway construction sites may be unsafe due to:
- Spilled or slippery substances such as oil on the road
- Lack of warning signs indicating lane changes
- Work zones that are distracting or confusing
- Incorrect speed limits posted
- Fallen objects or construction debris
- Lack of or inadequate line striping or highway division
Multi-car Accidents
When more than two vehicles are involved in a crash it can be difficult to determine liability. A multi-car accident may happen when a tractor-trailer rig spills its load. This type of accident is also common in rear-end collisions triggered by dense fog or other weather conditions wherein numerous vehicles collide with the one in front of them. There may be several plaintiffs and defendants when a multi-car accident occurs.
Common Causes of Car Accidents
There are many things that can impact a person’s ability to safely operate a vehicle. It is vital for motorists to focus all their attention on the road and the safe operation of their vehicles, but unfortunately this is not always the case. Some of the most common causes of car accidents include:
- Distracted driving – eating, engaging with passengers, reading, applying cosmetics
- Texting – motorists are nearly 25 times more likely to be involved in a crash
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Speeding
- Driving in a reckless manner
How a Personal Injury Attorney Can Help
Motorists who are injured in a car accident through no fault of their own are entitled to compensation of costs related to the accident. This compensation may include payment of medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional suffering, and more. An experienced personal injury attorney provides legal guidance and works to ensure victims are fairly compensated whether through a settlement or lawsuit. Contact the experienced Atlanta car accident lawyers at Hall & Lampros at 404-876-8100 today to have your questions answered, and help you understand all of your legal options.
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