The outcomes of an accident can vary significantly based on how, when, and where you were hit. Getting a small bump to your trunk can’t compare with side collisions. Similarly, it’s much better to suffer a crash during clear weather than a hailstorm.
Whatever the case, you have to be alert at all times. “While some of these incidents can’t be prevented, there are cases where fast reactions can save lives,” according to Michael Gopin, a veteran personal injury attorney from El Paso, Texas.
So, to help you out, we’ve listed the seven most common types of collisions and how to react during them.
1. Rear-End Crashes
Rear-end collisions are probably the most common type of car collisions. A slight lapse of judgment or a spell of fatigue can cause you to ram into another person during a traffic jam. The good news is that most of these crashes can be prevented by using a few smart practices.
The first and obvious one is keeping your distance. That way, you won’t have to rely on your quick reactions. This is especially important if you’re tired, as your reaction times are significantly slower. You also have to pay attention to weather conditions; if it’s raining or snowing, try to isolate yourself from other participants.
2. Single-Car Crash
In this particular case, there weren’t any other participants. People crash into barriers, terrain features, or animals. Single-car accidents also involve situations where you flip over or drive off the road. Given there aren’t any other participants during the crash, you have much more control over the situation and outcomes.
As with any other traffic situation, you must avoid driving under the influence. Even fatigue can prove deadly in these situations, clouding your judgment and slowing your reaction times. Besides that, it’s vital you adhere to the road conditions. Slow down during rough weather and on damaged roads. Not speeding is another way to avoid the issue.
3. Intersection Crashes
Intersection crashes are the deadliest type of collision. Another person ramming into the side of your vehicle is perilous, as there isn’t enough metal to protect you. While most of these accidents occur due to negligence, a handful of them are a result of poor understanding of traffic laws.
The most dangerous thing is when someone speeds through a red light. What’s worse, if they hit you, there’s little you can do. Regardless, you need to avoid being the cause of the crash. Pay attention to traffic lights, and don’t try to rush through the intersection at the last moment. Take a look at the other vehicles and assess their positions before crossing.
4. Parking Crashes
While we shouldn’t take parking accidents for granted, they’re definitely the least dangerous accident you might suffer. As you can guess by the name of the entry, this is when someone hits (or you hit someone) in the parking lot.
The best way to prevent these mishaps is by parking in the way local authorities intend. Put your car at the allocated spot and assess how other drivers can park their vehicles beside you. If you think you’ll hit someone, try looking for another spot. Among others, you also have to practice your parking to avoid mishaps.
5. Theft-Related Accidents
Your vehicle might also get damaged while being parked as a result of a break-in. The culprits usually break the windows or damage the doors to access the bags and items you’ve left inside. While these situations aren’t dangerous to you or your family, they can be pretty costly, depending on what you have in the vehicle.
Ideally, you should never leave anything of value inside your car. This not only reduces the odds of a break-in but also minimizes subsequent damages. You should always try to park in public areas with lots of street lights.
6. Windshield Damage
There’s nothing more demoralizing than suffering damage due to a random street pebble. And while you might think there’s nothing you can do about this type of damage, there are things you can do to prevent it.
Specifically, you can avoid the damage by staying away from other vehicles. They propel stones toward your windshield, so keeping your distance reduces the risk. We also suggest staying away from snowplows, which lift up debris in the air while making their rounds.
7. Backing Bumps
Last but not least are the backing-up bumps. These most commonly occur at parking lots, but they might also happen in traffic when you miss an exit or position yourself in the wrong lane.
To reduce the chance of these accidents, you’ll need some driving practice. A good trick is checking the position of other vehicles in the parking lot before getting into your car. Planning your routes in advance is also important for avoiding last-second turns and backing up.
Conclusion
Car collisions come in various shapes and forms. Besides your usual traffic crashes, you might also suffer damage while in the parking lot, driving your car in reverse, or due to small road debris. Luckily, there are various tricks to prevent this damage and avoid endangering your family.
