Common Car Accidents and How You Can Avoid Them

When you’re on the road, the last thing you want is to be involved in a car accident. Not only can accidents be costly and cause your insurance premiums to rise, but they can also lead to serious injuries or even death. It’s important to remember that when you’re behind the wheel, you’re in control of more than 3,000 pounds of fast-moving metal machinery. One wrong move can become extremely dangerous for you, your passengers, and others on the road.

To stay safe, consider taking a defensive driving course or other road safety classes, especially if you’re a teen or a new driver. These courses can also help you qualify for discounts on your auto insurance.

From fender benders to rollovers, there are several types of car accidents that drivers should actively work to avoid. Read on to learn more about common types of crashes and the steps you can take to prevent them.

1. Rear-End Collisions

What it is: A rear-end collision occurs when the front of one vehicle strikes the back of another.
The numbers: Rear-end collisions are the most common type of car accident. In 2022, they caused 2,817 deaths—7.2% of all traffic fatalities that year.
Who’s held liable: Typically, the driver in the rear is held responsible.
How to prevent them: Most rear-end crashes are caused by distracted driving or failing to maintain a safe following distance. To prevent them, eliminate distractions, maintain a three-second gap between vehicles, and regularly inspect and maintain your brakes.

2. Head-On Collisions

What it is: A head-on collision happens when the front ends of two vehicles collide while traveling in opposite directions.
The numbers: These crashes caused 4,253 deaths in 2022, accounting for 10.8% of all fatal accidents.
Who’s held liable: The at-fault driver is usually the one who crossed a median or drove the wrong way.
How to prevent them: Head-on collisions often occur on one-way streets or highway exit ramps. Always pay close attention to road signs and stay alert to avoid drifting into oncoming traffic.

3. Sideswipes

What it is: A sideswipe occurs when one vehicle scrapes or collides with the side of another while traveling in the same direction. These crashes are often minor but can be severe—especially when motorcycles are involved.
The numbers: In 2022, sideswipes caused 1,067 fatalities—2.7% of all fatal crashes.
Who’s held liable: The driver who drifts, passes unsafely, or fails to check blind spots before changing lanes is usually at fault.
How to prevent them: Avoid distractions, stay aware of nearby vehicles, never change lanes where prohibited, and always check your blind spots.

4. Side-Impact Crashes

What it is: Also known as T-bone collisions, side-impact crashes occur when the front of one car strikes the side of another, often at intersections.
The numbers: These crashes make up 35.4% of all auto accidents and account for nearly 50% of fatalities.
Who’s held liable: Typically, the driver who runs a red light, fails to stop at a sign, or disregards the right of way is at fault.
How to prevent them: Obey all traffic signals and signs. When crossing busy roads, always look both ways—even if it seems traffic has stopped.

5. Multi-Vehicle Collisions

What it is: These accidents involve three or more vehicles and often include chain-reaction crashes.
The numbers: Crashes involving three or more vehicles make up about 12% of all accidents.
Who’s held liable: Liability can be shared among several drivers, especially in states like Massachusetts.
How to prevent them: Multi-vehicle pileups are more common during rush hour or poor weather. Avoid distractions, maintain a safe following distance, and don’t drive while drowsy.

6. Rollover Accidents

What it is: A rollover occurs when a vehicle flips onto its side or roof.
The numbers: In 2022, 2,735 fatal rollover accidents occurred in the U.S., making up 7% of fatal crashes. SUVs, pickups, and vans are most at risk.
Who’s held liable: Liability may fall on another driver or on the individual operating the rolled-over vehicle, depending on the circumstances.
How to prevent them: Drive cautiously in poor conditions, avoid sharp turns, and keep your tires well-maintained.

7. Single-Vehicle Crashes

What it is: A single-vehicle crash involves a vehicle striking a fixed (e.g., tree, pole) or non-fixed object (e.g., pedestrian, cyclist).
The numbers: In 2022, there were 11,197 fatal crashes involving fixed objects (28.5% of all fatalities) and 9,327 involving non-fixed objects (23.8%).
Who’s held liable: Usually the driver, unless another vehicle’s behavior forces evasive action.
How to prevent them: Stay focused, scan the road ahead, watch for obstacles and pedestrians, and use high beams at night when appropriate.

8. Parked Car Collisions

What it is: This occurs when a moving vehicle hits a parked one.
The numbers: There were 497 fatal parked-car collisions in 2022, accounting for 1.3% of fatalities.
Who’s held liable: Generally, the driver of the moving vehicle.
How to prevent them: Park in less crowded areas, center your car in the space, and avoid high-traffic locations like intersections and driveways.

9. Backing Collisions

What it is: A backing collision happens when a driver reverses into a vehicle, object, or person.
The numbers: Each year, about 500 deaths and 15,000 injuries result from backing accidents.
Who’s held liable: Typically, the reversing driver is at fault.
How to prevent them: Check your surroundings before backing up, reverse slowly in a straight line, and always check for pedestrians and vehicles.

Staying Safe on the Road

Driver error contributes to an estimated 94% of all accidents. To protect yourself and others:

• Never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Avoid speeding
• Always wear your seatbelt
• Obey traffic lights and signs
• Keep a level head—road rage leads to dangerous decisions
• Drive cautiously in poor weather, or avoid it altogether
• Choose a vehicle with high safety ratings and keep it well-maintained
• Pay attention to recall notices
• Inexperienced drivers—especially teens—are at higher risk. Teen drivers are four times more likely to be involved in an accident than drivers over 20.

To learn more about auto insurance or to file a claim after an accident, contact C&S Insurance today.