You use your car every day for different purposes, and that frequent use of your vehicle makes it probable for you to get into a car crash. There are different ways a person can get into a car crash, but some types of accidents are more prevalent than others. As a driver, you can reduce the probability of suffering from a collision if you know which types of crashes are the most common and how to avoid them.
Collisions with a fixed object
It is not rare for drivers to hit a fixed object, like a tree, utility pole or a traffic barrier. In fact, 20% of all crash fatalities in 2019 in the U.S. resulted from vehicles hitting a fixed object on the side of the road. To avoid a crash like this, you should never use your cellphone while driving, nor should you get distracted in any other way. Alcohol consumption is another contributing factor to this type of accident. Also, you must avoid driving at night, as poor visibility can cause you to strike an object.
Side impact collisions
Side impact collisions happen when the front of one vehicle strikes the side of another car. Most times, drivers cause these accidents when they ignore the traffic laws. For example, when a driver runs a red light. You can prevent a crash like this by obeying traffic laws. To prevent someone from hitting your car by the side, be extra cautious when crossing an intersection and wait a couple of seconds to accelerate after the light turns green.
Rear-end collisions
Rear-end collisions are the most common type of car accident in the country. A rear-end collision usually results from distracted driving or tailgating. To avoid this type of crash, leave enough space between cars, don’t speed and always use your turning signals when needed. To prevent another car from hitting your vehicle from the back, give the cars behind you enough space to break. Also, always break slowly to give the other drivers time to react to your stop.
Your right as a driver
You can take the appropriate measures to prevent an accident. However, you cannot control what others do. Even by paying attention, a driver can still hit you if they are careless. If this ever happens to you, you can file a legal claim against the other driver to ask them for compensation. This is your right as a driver of Pennsylvania, and you can fight for it in court.
