Drivers have to be aware of everything around them when they’re on the road. Even with a watchful eye, it’s not always possible to avoid all accidents. There’s an endless amount of problems that could occur on the highways and back roads of the Brockton, Randolph, and Stoughton areas.
Luckily, most accidents are minor incidents that don’t cause a lot of damage or result in serious injuries. Some of the most concerning are collisions that involve two or more vehicles. Here are the most common types of collisions and the types of injuries they frequently cause.
Head-on Collisions
Probably the most consistently dangerous type of collision is the head-on accident. This event happens when an impact takes place between two vehicles traveling toward each other. Approximately 10% of all motor vehicle fatalities occur as a result of head-on collisions, despite the fact that they account for only 2% of all accidents. Common injuries during front-end collisions include spinal damage and paralysis, brain injuries, broken bones, and internal damage.
New Forward Collision Warning technology can help prevent some head-on collisions, but it’s important to always keep your eyes on the road and drive safely.
Rear-end Collision
This is one of the most common types of accidents. It typically occurs because vehicles are traveling too close together or the driver in the rear car isn’t paying attention. In a small amount of these accidents, the driver in front reverses without warning and causes the accident.
Whiplash is the most common injury seen in this type of accident, and most of the incidents that occur each year are minor compared to other types of collisions. To avoid rear-end collisions, keep a safe following distance from the vehicle in front of you. If someone is traveling too close behind you, change lanes or pull over safely and let them pass.
Side-impact Collisions
Side-impact accidents are another one of the most common types of collisions that can be extremely devastating. The accident results in a perpendicular hit that often leads to secondary hits to nearby structures or other vehicles, or could cause the vehicle to roll over.
Broken bones, lacerations, and spinal injuries are common. Brain injury and even death are also commonly experienced during side impacts. How to avoid side-impact collisions? Slow down before approaching intersections so you can check to make sure they’re clear. Make sure that cross traffic has stopped completely before proceeding.
The use of seat belts, installation of additional airbags, and defensive driving techniques have helped to save a lot of lives affected by collisions. Understanding how they cause injury and what leads to these types of events has been a useful strategy in making the roadways safer for all. All drivers should do what they can to learn more about the risks they face on the road and what they can do to keep themselves and their family safer.
If you’re in the Brockton, Randolph, or Stoughton area and are in need of collision repair, please contact us at Collision 24.