Thousands of auto accidents take place on California’s highways and roads every day. The circumstances surrounding an auto collision can vary considerably depending on the types of vehicles involved, where the crash occurred and what type of collision took place. For example, the results of a head-on collision are typically much more severe than the aftermath of a rear-end collision.
No matter what type of auto accident occurred, drivers and passengers can sustain various types of serious injuries in a crash. Traumatic brain injuries, back injuries, spinal cord injuries, head injuries, and amputation (limb loss) injuries take the lives of thousands of California drivers each year.
Northern California Head-On Collision
When the front ends of two cars collide into one another, a head-on collision has occurred. According to U.S. traffic accident statistics for 2005, head-on collisions only accounted for two percent of all traffic accidents, but accounted for almost 10 percent of all fatal traffic crashes. If a vehicle was traveling at 50 mph and collided head-on with another vehicle traveling at the same speed, it is equivalent to hitting a stationary object at 50 mph.
Rear-End Collision
A rear-end collision happens when the front end of a vehicle hits the back end of another car. Rear-end collisions happen frequently when vehicles are either speeding up or slowing down alternately, such as in rush hour traffic or at stop lights. It is estimated in a rear-end collision, the force generated upon impact is equivalent to hitting a wall at half of the closing speed. For example, if a car were to hit a stationary vehicle while traveling 30 mph, it would be like hitting a wall at 15 mph. The force generated in a rear-end collision can vary depending on the type of vehicles involved.
Sideswipe Collision
A sideswipe collision involves one vehicle hitting the side of another car. Sideswipe collisions are also called T-bone accidents or side-impact crashes. Because an engine or trunk cannot buffer the impact of a crash, sideswipe collisions often end tragically for drivers or passengers located on the side hit. To reduce the risk of occupant injury or death in a sideswipe crash, most auto manufacturers begun installing side-impact airbags in all new models during the early 2000’s.
Northern California Personal Injury Claims
If you were injured in a head-on collision, rear-end collision or sideswipe collision, you may be able to file a personal injury claim to seek monetary compensation from the at-fault party. It is highly recommended you speak to a reputable northern California auto accident attorney following your accident. A skilled northern California personal injury lawyer can help you recover the highest amount of compensation possible for medical expenses, lost earnings and pain and suffering.
