The 4 Most Dangerous Types of Car Crashes
Legally Reviewed and Edited by: Terry Cochran
The four most dangerous types of car crashes are major causes of injury and death in the United States and can have devastating consequences for those involved. In 2020, there were 38,824 deaths in car accidents in the U.S., with 1,084 occurring in Michigan.
Some accidents are more dangerous than others, including head-on, T-bone, rollover, and rear-end collisions. Understanding the risks and how these collisions occur can help you take steps to avoid them.
If you or a loved one suffers catastrophic injuries in a car collision, contact the Michigan car accident lawyer at Cochran, Kroll, & Associates, P.C. to help you understand your rights and seek compensation.
The Four Most Dangerous Types of Car Crashes
While all car accidents can result in injuries, a few types of crashes are more likely to cause severe damage or fatalities. This is due to the force of the vehicles and the position of drivers and passengers in the following crash types:
1. Head-on Collisions
Head-on collisions are one of the four most dangerous types of car accidents, with the potential to cause serious injuries or even fatalities. A 2018 Federal Highway Administration report found that head-on collisions account for 14% of fatal accidents in the United States. 85% of these crashes occurred on roadways without median dividers. In 2020, the IIHS reported that frontal impacts caused 58% of vehicle accident fatalities.
These collisions occur when two vehicles traveling in opposite directions collide. Head-on accidents often happen on two-lane roads, where one driver may veer into oncoming traffic due to distracted driving, fatigue, or impairment. The force of the impact can be extremely severe, as the combined speed of the two vehicles is directed towards a single point.
Physical injuries from head-on collisions can include spinal cord injuries, herniated discs, and traumatic brain injuries. They can also result in emotional trauma for those involved.
2. Side Impact Collision
Side impact collisions, also known as T-bone accidents, are another of the four most dangerous types of car crashes. The IIHS reports that side impacts accounted for 23% of crash fatalities in 2020.
Side impact crashes occur when the front of a car hits the side of another vehicle, often at an intersection or in a parking lot. The side of the vehicle offers much less protection to its occupants than the front or rear, making side impact collisions particularly dangerous.
The risk of physical injury in side impact collisions includes head and neck injuries, damage to the abdominal and chest, pelvic injuries, and soft tissue damage. They can also result in significant property damage because the impact often occurs at high speeds. These types of accidents are usually caused by a failure to yield the right of way, running a red light or stop sign or distracted driving.
3. Rear-end Accident
Rear-end accidents occur when one vehicle crashes into the back of another car, making them one of the most common car accidents. Although they are often considered less serious than other accidents, only causing about 5% of fatalities in 2020, rear-end collisions can still cause catastrophic injuries. The risk of severe damage increases if the vehicles involved are traveling at high speeds.
Whiplash injuries are a common result of rear-end collisions, which can cause neck and back pain and headaches. These types of accidents are often caused by distracted driving, following too closely, or sudden stops or changes in traffic.
If you have suffered a personal injury in a rear-end accident, Michigan car accident lawyer and determine your legal options. Our attorneys at Cochran, Kroll, & Associates, P.C. will use their knowledge and skills to help you receive a fair settlement to pay for injuries you suffered in a crash.
Eileen Kroll, our senior partner and a registered nurse, will review your accident-related medical to file a strong claim on your behalf for compensation. Our team will ensure you receive your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits and file a third-party claim if your injuries meet Michigan’s serious injury threshold.
4. Rollover Accident
Rollover accidents occur when a vehicle rolls over onto its side or roof and are some of the most dangerous types of car crashes. These crashes accounted for 14% of accident fatalities in 2020.
Rollovers are caused by a single vehicle at high speeds, on sharp turns, or in a collision with another car. Rollover crashes are particularly dangerous because occupants can be ejected from the vehicle or trapped inside, and the vehicle’s roof may collapse, causing serious injuries or fatalities.
SUVs, pickup trucks, and other vehicles with a high center of gravity are more prone to rollover accidents than other vehicles. The IIHS reported that fatal rollover crashes killed 11% of car occupants, 19% of pickup truck occupants, and 18% of SUV occupants.
Seek Legal Representation After a Dangerous Crash
Car accidents can have serious and sometimes fatal consequences. If you’ve been injured in a crash on Michigan roadways, the compassionate attorneys at Cochran, Kroll, & Associates, P.C. can help. We have successfully represented many Michigan vehicle accident victims and will work hard to get you the compensation you deserve.
Contact the car accident attorneys at Cochran, Kroll, &Associates, P.C. for a free consultation. By being vigilant and cautious behind the wheel, you can help keep roads safer for everyone and prevent the most dangerous types of car crashes.
Our contingency fee basis means we only get paid if we win your case, so there is no financial risk to you to get started. Call our law firm today at 1-866-MICH-LAW and schedule your no-obligation, free case evaluation.
Disclaimer : The information provided is general and not for legal advice. The blogs are not intended to provide legal counsel and no attorney-client relationship is created nor intended.
