When gathering photographs and videos as evidence for your insurance claim or lawsuit in California, it is crucial to comprehend the circumstances of the accident and how they may impact the determination of fault. Four types of crashes that are most common:
Head-on collisions
When two vehicles traveling in opposite directions crash into each other, the force and momentum generated from such an impact are immense. Drivers and their passengers often suffer from whiplash, spinal cord injuries and traumatic brain injuries. And the vehicular and property damages are usually severe.
These types of motor vehicle accidents can often result from a driver’s distraction, fatigue or impairment from drugs and/or alcohol. A head-on collision can also happen if a vehicle goes in the opposite direction on a one-way street or highway.
Rear-end collisions
These types of crashes happen when one vehicle hits the back of another car ahead of it. California guidelines recommend rear drivers maintain a distance of three seconds from the vehicle in front of them because an average person can effectively react when they have enough time to respond.
For this reason, the fault generally lies with the rear-end drivers because chances were they were following too closely or speeding. However, the front driver could also be responsible if they suddenly slammed on the brakes without just cause.
T-bone collisions
T-bone crashes (also referred to as side-impact collisions) happen when the front of one vehicle collides with the side of another. They are common at intersections where a driver fails to yield, runs a red light or stop sign or makes an improper turn.
People in the hit car can suffer damage to organs like lungs, kidneys, intestines and spleen or broken bones. In the event of a rollover, the individuals inside could even lose their lives.
Pedestrian accidents
Quite common at intersections, pedestrian accidents are the most catastrophic type of car crash. It’s a 3,000-pound (or more) machine hitting a human body. The aftermath is often death or serious injuries if the victim is lucky enough to survive.
Each type of car crash carries unique risks and consequences. While it’s important to be aware of these, remember that motorists can avoid almost all of them by driving responsibly and defensively. In case of an accident, there are laws designed to protect victims and provide justice. If you have been involved in an auto accident and seek more information on your rights, please contact The Law Office of Aman N. Shah for a free initial consultation.
