6 Most Dangerous Types of Car Accidents in California

As California drivers, we make sure to take precautions on the road for others. Unfortunately, some drivers do not follow the same safe habits as others. This can cause devastating accidents that leave many vulnerable drivers injured and dealing with repairs. 

There are many types of car accidents that happen daily. Our car accident lawyers have uncovered some types of car accidents that are more dangerous than others, however. These are the 6 most dangerous types of car accidents in California. 

• Table of Contents

  Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions occur when two vehicles that are traveling opposite directions directly crash into each other. Speed often comes into play in these types of accidents, and the results can be devastating. Head-on collisions often leave severe injuries and significant vehicle damage. 

Common injuries from head-on collisions include brain trauma, broken bones, paralysis, and more. A head-on collision can be one of the most severe and violent car accidents to be involved in. 

• T-Bone Accidents (Side-Impact Collisions)

Another dangerous type of car accident is the t-bone accident, also known as a side-impact collision. These types of accidents are also very common. A t-bone accident occurs when one vehicle is impacted on its side, often at a 90 degree angle. A t-bone accident can be especially devastating for the person sitting on the side that is collided with. 

The force of the collision will likely cause serious injury to the person occupying that side of the vehicle. Some common injuries resulting from t-bone accidents include whiplash, head injuries, spinal injuries, and more. 

• Rollover Vehicle 

A rollover vehicle accident involves one vehicle tipping over onto its side or roof. This type of car accident often has serious fatalities. Rollover vehicle accidents can occur due to speed and other factors. 

Tall and narrow vehicles like SUVs, vans, and pickups are more likely to rollover than other cars. 

• Off-The-Road Crashes

An off-the-road crash is characterized by a single vehicle veering off the road and colliding with a stationary object. This is often a pole, tree, or small building. Though this form of car accident often only involves one vehicle, there can be another driver involved. For example, a reckless driver may force another driver to veer off the road in order to avoid collision. The driver may end up impacting a tree instead.

Injuries for off-the-road crashes can include head trauma, chest trauma, and more. 

• Rear-End Collisions 

Rear-end collisions are very common. This type of accident occurs when one vehicle hits another from behind. This collision can happen at any speed, and the consequences can be grave. Rear-end collisions can occur due to various reasons, but one of the most common is tailgating. Some of the injuries that may occur from a rear-end collision include whiplash, head trauma, and back pain. Rear-end collisions can also cause significant damage to a vehicle as well. 

• Multi-Car Accidents (Pileup Collisions)

Multi-car accidents, also referred to as pileup collisions, usually involve 3 or more vehicles. These accidents can often develop as a chain reaction to one driver’s negligent acts. For example, a distracted driver who suddenly slams on their brakes can cause a domino effect with the cars behind them. 

Because there are multiple drivers involved, there can be a significantly larger amount of injuries and vehicle damage. 

Why Do Car Accidents Occur? 

Car accidents can occur due to multiple reasons. Unfortunately, it often comes down to the negligence of one driver to follow safety measures on the road. Some of the most common reasons behind car accidents include: 

 

• Distracted driving, i.e. texting while driving, looking away from the road, fiddling with the radio, eating, etc. 
• Aggressive driving, i.e. tailgating, brake-checking, harassing another driver, etc. 
• Speeding and practicing other unsafe lane maneuvers such as cutting other drivers off
• Failing to yield to other drivers or pedestrians
• Failing to use a turn signal 
• Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol 
• Bad weather conditions on the road 

 

There can be many reasons why a car accident occurs. Unfortunately, many careful drivers still find themselves involved in a serious car accident due to the recklessness of another driver. 

What are Some Preventative Measures I Can Take? 

Though some car accidents can happen too quickly with little to do on your end, there are a few preventative measures you can take. These measures can prevent you from suffering serious injuries in the case of a vehicle accident, or allow you to distance yourself from negligent drivers if possible. Some of the steps you can take while on the road include:

 

• Wearing a seatbelt
• Paying attention to the other drivers on the road
• Being aware of your surroundings and making sure to check your mirrors often
• Following speed limits
• Maintain a safe driving distance from other drivers
• Not engaging with other aggressive drivers 
• Taking precautions when the weather is bad
• Keeping your eyes on the road and not looking at your phone while driving 

 

Though there is only so much we can do as drivers, taking some precautions while on the road can make quite a difference. By practicing safe driving, you are actively looking out for yourself and others on the road as well. 

What Should I Do After a Car Accident?

After a car accident, you may be feeling a number of things. You may have an adrenaline rush, be afraid, upset, and more. However, you must keep a clear head and take some necessary steps. These include:

 

• Get off the road and into safety
• Call the police to file a report
• Take photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicles, and your own injuries
• Get any eyewitness contact information
• Exchange information with the other driver
• Seek medical attention
• Get in contact with a personal injury lawyer

By taking these steps, you are ensuring you’ve done everything right for your safety and a possible claim. Though car accidents can be terrifying, springing into action can make a difference. 

Do I Have a Personal Injury Case?

You’ve been involved in a car accident. Does this mean you have a personal injury case? If your car accident was caused by the negligent acts of another driver and resulted in your injuries, the answer is yet. 

A personal injury claim involves proving that another driver breached their duty of care. This can be supported by evidence, such as eyewitness testimony, photos/videos of injuries, and more. 

Filing a personal injury claim can ensure you can possibly obtain financial compensation for any injuries and necessary vehicle repairs. You can choose to file a claim through the insurance company of the other driver or if this does not work, a lawsuit may be done as well. 

Should I Speak to a Personal Injury Attorney? 

If you are considering filing a personal injury claim, sitting down with a personal injury attorney is the perfect option. A personal injury lawyer can guide you through the claim process, advise you when it comes to dealing with insurance companies, gather the right evidence, and help you determine the value of your case. 

Having a personal injury lawyer at your side can help you through the legal process. Consult with one of our San Diego personal injury attorneys about your case today!