Car accidents range from fender-benders to head-on collisions, and things become more complicated when factors like multiple vehicles and tractor trailers are involved. The type of collision determines the nature of the injuries, liability, and the evidence needed to support a claim. A clear understanding of different types of car accidents can help you decide which legal avenue to pursue after a crash.
What Is a Rear-End Collision?
A “rear-end” collision happens when one vehicle crashes into the back of another. It is frequently caused by tailgating, distracted driving, or sudden braking. The lead vehicle is not always free of responsibility, however. If the driver made an abrupt stop without cause or had malfunctioning brake lights, fault may be shared or shifted.
Rear-end accidents often result in neck and back injuries due to the sudden jolt of impact. Even low-speed incidents may cause whiplash or soft-tissue damage. Determining liability requires a close look at road conditions, vehicle spacing, and whether the following driver acted with reasonable caution.
What Is a T-Bone Accident?
A “T-bone” accident, or a “side-impact” collision, occurs when the front of one vehicle strikes the side of another. These crashes frequently take place at intersections when one driver fails to yield or runs a traffic light. The resulting impact can be severe, especially for those seated on the side of the vehicle that is struck.
T-bone collisions are often linked to distracted or aggressive driving. Determining who had the right-of-way and whether traffic signals were obeyed is central to assessing fault.
What Is a Head-On Collision?
A “head-on” collision happens when two vehicles traveling in opposite directions crash into each other. These accidents are among the most dangerous due to the combined force of both vehicles. Common causes include wrong-way driving, impaired operation, or failure to remain in the proper lane.
These accidents often occur on rural roads, highways, or during poor weather conditions. Injuries from head-on crashes are typically serious or fatal, and legal claims may involve both civil and criminal proceedings depending on the circumstances.
What Is a Sideswipe Collision?
A “sideswipe” occurs when the sides of two vehicles make contact, often while traveling in the same direction. These accidents may happen during lane changes when one driver fails to check blind spots. Sideswipes are more common on multi-lane highways or congested city streets.
While not always high-impact, sideswipe collisions can cause drivers to lose control or veer into other lanes, resulting in secondary crashes. Establishing fault involves reviewing lane positioning, turn signal use, and whether one vehicle drifted unexpectedly.
What Are Multi-Vehicle Pileups?
“Multi-vehicle” accidents, also called “pileups,” involve three or more vehicles. These incidents typically occur on highways and in areas with high traffic volumes. They are often triggered by a chain reaction following an initial collision. Factors like speed, weather, and reduced visibility may cause additional drivers to collide with those already involved.
Establishing liability in pileups can be challenging. Multiple insurance companies, conflicting accounts, and overlapping damages add to the difficulty. A thorough investigation is required to determine how the chain of events unfolded and which drivers may be responsible for specific damages.
What Happens in a Hit-and-Run Accident?
A “hit-and-run” occurs when a driver leaves the scene without providing contact or insurance information. This may happen in parking lots, on residential streets, or after serious crashes.
Survivors of hit-and-run crashes may pursue compensation through their own uninsured motorist coverage, depending on their policy. Police reports, witness accounts, and surveillance footage are sometimes used to locate the fleeing driver.
An Experienced Fayetteville Car Accident Lawyer at Osborne Law Firm Can Help You Get the Compensation You Deserve for Your Car Crash Injuries
A skilled Fayetteville car accident lawyer at Osborne Law Firm represents clients involved in every type of motor vehicle crash imaginable. For a free consultation, call today at 479-521-7727 or complete our online form. Located in Fayetteville, Arkansas, we gladly serve clients in Washington County, Benton County, Madison County, Northwest Arkansas, and the surrounding areas.