Most car accidents involving multiple vehicles are the result of driver negligence. From texting and driving to being drunk behind the wheel, all types of mistakes can lead to all types of dangerous collisions.
If you have been injured in a collision, one of the first steps toward securing financial compensation (typically through an insurance settlement) is to identify the cause of the accident and the party that is responsible. The following are all common types of accidents in which a negligent driver may be to blame:
1. Head-On Collisions
In a head-on collision, two cars make impact while traveling in opposite directions. These accidents frequently happen on undivided roads, at intersections and in crowded parking lots. When a distracted, drunk or sleeping driver crosses a double-yellow line or enters an intersection without the right of way, oncoming motorists will often be left helpless to avoid severe vehicle damage and serious accident-related injuries.
2. Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions are most common in heavy traffic and at busy intersections, though they can occur under a wide range of other circumstances as well. Texting behind the wheel, tailgating, attempting to “beat” a yellow light and other mistakes are all common culprits in rear-end accidents.
3. Running Off of the Road
In some circumstances, one driver’s negligence will be responsible for another driver being forced off of the road. These accidents may or may not involve a collision, but in either case they can present extreme risks for innocent drivers and their passengers. If you were run off of the road, hopefully the negligent driver stopped to help you. But, if not, you may still be able to seek compensation for a hit-and-run accident.
4. Sideswipes
A sideswipe is a type of accident in which two vehicles make side-to-side contact while traveling in the same or opposite directions. Sideswipes can result from mistakes such as failure to yield, failure to check blind spots, inattentiveness, drunkenness and succumbing to distractions.
5. Side Impact (T-Bone) Collisions
In contrast to a sideswipe, in a side impact or “T-bone” accident, one vehicle collides head-on with the side of another. Side impact collisions are most common at intersections, typically occurring when a negligent driver runs a red light or stop sign. T-bones are often violent collisions, frequently resulting in broken bones; lacerations from broken glass; and head, spine and other internal injuries.
Regardless of what happened, it is important that you seek prompt medical attention, and you should make arrangements to speak with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. You may be entitled to a significant financial recovery, and an experienced attorney will be able to use evidence collected during a thorough investigation to seek maximum compensation for your medical bills, pain and suffering, and other losses.
Schedule a Free Consultation at Powell, Powell & Powell, P.A.
Powell, Powell & Powell, P.A. is a Crestview, FL personal injury law firm that represents auto accident victims throughout Northwest Florida. If you have been injured in a car accident and would like to speak with an attorney about your rights, please call (850) 682-2757 or request a free consultation online today.