TYPES OF CAR ACCIDENTS

Understanding the Risks and Your Legal Rights

Car accidents are an unfortunate reality of modern life, with millions of collisions occurring each year in the United States. Auto accidents can range from minor fender benders to devastating crashes that result in serious injuries or even fatalities.

You can get into various types of car accidents, and if you sustained an injury or lost a close family member in a Colorado car accident someone else caused, you may qualify to obtain compensation.

Insurance companies make the claims process complex and difficult to navigate without the help of an experienced car accident attorney.

Contact a lawyer in your area right away to discuss your rights and options to seek compensation from the at-fault driver or other parties responsible for your injuries and losses.

SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION TODAY

The Most Common Types of Car Accidents

Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end collisions are one of the most frequent types of car accidents. These crashes occur when one vehicle crashes into the back of another vehicle, often due to following too closely, or failing to brake in time. Rear-end collisions can cause whiplash, back injuries, and other serious harm to the occupants of the vehicle that was hit.

Side-Impact Collisions (T-Bone Accidents)

Side-impact collisions, also known as T-bone accidents, happen when the front of one vehicle strikes the side of another vehicle, forming a “T” shape. These accidents often occur at intersections when one driver fails to yield the right of way or runs a red light. Side-impact collisions can cause dangerous injuries because the sides of vehicles offer less protection than the front or rear.

Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions are among the most severe types of car accidents, often resulting in serious injuries or fatalities. These crashes occur when the front ends of two vehicles collide, usually due to one vehicle crossing the centerline into oncoming traffic. Head-on collisions are more likely to happen on rural roads and highways where there are fewer barriers separating opposing lanes of traffic.

Sideswipe Accidents

Sideswipe accidents occur when two vehicles traveling in the same direction make contact with each other, often due to one vehicle drifting out of its lane or attempting an unsafe lane change. While these accidents may seem minor, they can still cause significant damage and injuries, particularly if they force one vehicle off the road.

Single-Vehicle Accidents

Single-vehicle accidents involve only one vehicle and can have various causes, such as losing control of the vehicle due to speeding, distracted driving, or poor road conditions. These accidents may also involve collisions with fixed objects like trees, utility poles, or guardrails.

What Causes Car Accidents?

Numerous factors can contribute to car accidents, but some of the most common causes include:

  • Distracted Driving: Drivers who are texting, eating, or otherwise not paying attention to the road are more likely to cause accidents.
  • Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to control their vehicle and increases the severity of any resulting accidents.
  • Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly increases the risk of accidents and is illegal in all 50 states.
  • Fatigue: Drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as drunk driving, as it impairs a driver’s reaction time and decision-making ability.
  • Poor Weather Conditions: Rain, snow, and ice can make roads slippery and reduce visibility, making accidents more likely.

Other factors can cause car accidents as well, including defective auto components and badly disrepair roads. A personal injury attorney can review your claim to determine whether you can pursue compensation and provide much-needed guidance and advocacy throughout the process.

Colorado Car Accident Statistics

Here are some relevant statistics about car accidents in Colorado, based on crash data from the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) and other sources:

  • There were 121,648 crashes reported in Colorado in a recent year, resulting in 544 fatalities and 3,217 serious injuries.
  • The economic cost of traffic crashes in Colorado was approximately $6.5 billion, including medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and other factors.
  • Speeding was a contributing factor in 36% of all fatal crashes in Colorado.
  • Impaired driving (alcohol and/or drugs) was involved in 30% of all traffic fatalities in Colorado.
  • Distracted driving, including cell phone use, was involved in 15,143 crashes in Colorado, resulting in 53 fatalities.

How to Tell if You Have a Valid Personal Injury Claim

personal injury claimFollowing a car accident in Colorado, you may be wondering whether you have a valid personal injury claim. For a strong case, you’ll generally need an attorney to prove:

  1. The other driver owed you a duty of care (i.e., they had a responsibility to drive safely and follow traffic laws).
  2. The other driver breached that duty of care (e.g., by speeding, running a red light, or driving while distracted).
  3. The breach of duty directly caused your injuries.
  4. You suffered actual damages (e.g., medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering) as a result of the accident.

If your lawyer can demonstrate these elements, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses.

How a Lawyer Can Help You Obtain Compensation

If you sustained an injury in a car accident in Colorado, working with an experienced personal injury attorney can significantly improve your chances of obtaining the compensation you deserve. A skilled lawyer can:

  • Investigate your accident to gather evidence and determine liability.
  • Handle communication with insurance companies and negotiate on your behalf.
  • Calculate the full extent of your damages, including future medical expenses and lost earning capacity.
  • File a lawsuit and represent you in court if necessary.
  • Protect your rights throughout the legal process.

By working with a knowledgeable attorney, you can focus on your recovery while your legal team fights for the compensation you need to move forward.

Contact an Experienced Colorado Car Accident Lawyer Today

Car accidents can be frightening and overwhelming, but understanding the common types of collisions, their causes, and your legal rights can help you navigate the aftermath of a crash. If you or a loved one has suffered harm in a car accident in Colorado due to someone else’s negligence, don’t hesitate to seek the guidance of a trusted personal injury attorney. At Brown Law Firm, our team of experienced attorneys is dedicated to helping car accident victims obtain the compensation they deserve. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that a serious collision can take, and we’re here to support you during all stages of the claims process. Contact us today for a free consultation and learn how we can help you protect your rights and secure your future.