COMMON CAUSES OF MICHIGAN CAR CRASHES REAR END COLLISIONS

The most common type of crash, a rear- end collision happens when one driver fails to stop in time, hitting another driver from behind.

The law generally presumes that the rear driver is at fault for failing to stop in time, however the front driver could be found partially negligent if they were distracted, tailgating another driver, speeding, or driving under the influence.

In some cases, the force of the collision is strong enough to cause injuries like whiplash, where the head and neck snap forward while the rest of the body remains still, traumatic brain injuries, or back and spinal injuries such as compressed or herniated discs, all of which require medical treatment.

If the injuries are severe, an injured party may see increased value in their claim because the recklessness or negligence of the at-fault party created injuries that have caused permanent impairment and medical bills and lost wages go beyond no- fault coverage limits.

SIDE SWIPE COLLISIONS

When one driver tries to enter or merge into a lane with a car already there, they may cause a side- swipe accident if they fail to notice and stop. All drivers are legally required to use turn signals before making a lane change and should check their blind spots for cars. A car already traveling in a lane has the legal right of way.

Because the angle of the crash can cause a car to spin out, sideswipe accidents have the potential to cause both drivers lose control. This can lead to injuries from secondary impact such as guardrails or retaining walls, or multi- vehicle crashes.

SIDE IMPACT COLLISIONS (T- BONE COLLLISION)

Side impact collisions are common at stop signs and intersections and can happen when one driver fails to yield the right of way to another driver, usually because they ran a red light or stop sign or made an unsafe left turn.

T- bone collisions can cause injuries for both drivers, but the driver sustaining impact from the side is particularly vulnerable to injuries due to less crash protection on the side of vehicles. Side impact can cause injuries to the legs, midsection, or spinal cord of that driver. The driver experiencing front impact can be susceptible to injuries from air bag deployment, head trauma, or broken bones.

Determining fault in a side impact crash can sometimes prove difficult, not only because drivers tend to blame each other, but also because Michigan’s comparative negligence laws mean that an injured party’s compensation can be reduced if they are found to be partially at- fault for the accident. An experienced car accident attorney can guide you through this process.

ROLLOVER COLLISIONS

Rollover collisions occur when the force of crash results in one vehicle rolling onto its roof or side and are particularly dangerous and have a high potential for injury and extensive property damage. Taller SUVs have a higher center of gravity and are particularly prone to rollover crashes.

HEAD ON COLLISIONS

Head on collisions, where one driver ends up in a lane with traffic going the opposite direction, are undoubtedly the most dangerous type of collision due to the high potential for serious injuries or death from impact, including:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) from concussions or brain bleeding
• Spinal cord injury or paralysis
• Broken bones/fractures
• Internal bleeding/organ damage
• Whiplash
• Fatalities

Head on collisions are most common on two- lane roads or highways where traffic is traveling in opposite directions and can happen in the blink of an eye. Often a result of distracted, reckless, or impaired driving, these crashes account for 10% of car accident fatalities.

The driver who crossed into oncoming traffic is often found to be negligent and at- fault, particularly in the case of reckless or impaired driving, but insurance companies and Michigan’s comparative negligence laws can complicate the process, so contacting a car accident lawyer Kajy Law is strongly recommended

CALL KAJY LAW

Kajy Law’s Car Accident Team has a documented history of success with helping accident victims receive the justice and compensation they deserve. We’ll guide you through the process of dealing with insurance claims and companies so you can focus on recovery.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Michigan, call 877-KAJY- CARES or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation.