Even with increased road safety awareness and car safety symptoms, accidents have remained a common occurrence on Wisconsin roads. This is not an off-hand incident, as thousands of collisions happen each year. What makes such accidents exceedingly devastating are the subsequent injuries, property damage, and vehicle damage.
According to an expert Wisconsin car accident attorney, most drivers are simply unaware of the various ways their car can end up in an accident. The type of accident also ends up impacting their legal options. Each type of crash presents unique challenges, from rear-end collisions to single-vehicle accidents. Here’s what you need to know…
Rear-End Collisions
These accidents often occur in heavy traffic, at intersections, or during sudden stops. Rear-end collisions are typically caused by distracted driving, tailgating, or sudden braking. The driver who hits the vehicle from behind is usually found at fault because they have to maintain a safe following distance. The injuries sustained in rear-end collisions can range from mild to severe. Common injuries include whiplash, back injuries, and concussions, which can have long-term effects if not treated promptly.
Side-Impact Crashes
Side-impact crashes, also known as T-bone collisions, occur when the front of one vehicle crashes into the side of another. These accidents are hazardous because the sides of vehicles offer less protection compared to the front or rear. Side-impact crashes are most likely to occur at intersections, often when one driver fails to obey traffic signals or stop signs. The severity of injuries in side-impact collisions can be devastating, with drivers and passengers at risk of suffering broken bones, internal injuries, or traumatic brain injuries.
Sideswipe Accidents
Sideswipe accidents happen when two vehicles traveling parallel to each other collide. These crashes are often the result of lane-changing errors, failure to check blind spots, or reckless driving. While sideswipe accidents may seem less severe than other types of crashes, they can still lead to dangerous situations, especially if one or both vehicles lose control. In many cases, sideswipe accidents result in vehicles being forced off the road or into oncoming traffic, leading to secondary crashes.
Rollovers
Rollovers are some of the most dangerous types of car accidents, often leading to life-threatening injuries or fatalities. These accidents are more common in vehicles with a high center of gravity, such as SUVs or trucks. Rollovers can occur when a driver loses control of the vehicle, often due to speeding, taking a sharp turn, or hitting an object like a curb or guardrail. The injuries sustained in rollovers are often severe, with occupants at risk of being ejected from the vehicle if not wearing seatbelts.
Single-Vehicle Accidents
Single-vehicle accidents involve only one car and are often caused by driver error, road conditions, or mechanical failure. These accidents can include hitting an obstacle, such as a tree, guardrail, or animal, or losing control due to weather conditions like ice or snow, which are common in Wisconsin during the winter months. Although no other vehicles are involved, single-vehicle accidents can still result in severe injuries or fatalities.
Car accidents have the potential to cause significant harm and injury. Beyond the immediate medical bills, you also need to financially compensate for lost wages, vehicle repairs, and long-term health consequences. This is precisely why seeking the assistance of a legal expert is a good idea as they can help you in the right direction. By having your case evaluated, you can identify the steps necessary to pursue your damage claims. Don’t worry! Your lawyer will help you navigate this difficult area with ease, ensuring that you receive maximum compensation!
