Most Common Accident Scenarios & How To Avoid Them
Driving is something that’s a normal part of many people’s daily routines. Whether you’re heading to work, running errands, or taking a trip, driving your car probably feels like second nature. However, the normalcy of driving around town can often give us a false sense of security, as we forget about the very real dangers of operating a motor vehicle.
In fact, oftentimes the only thing that separates you and your passengers from a major accident is a thin stripe of paint on the road. When accidents inevitably occur, not only are they terrifying and traumatic, but they can cause lasting damage that disrupts your life for years to come.
At Murphy, Falcon & Murphy, our auto accident lawyers in Baltimore have seen it all. For more than 70 years, we have helped countless Maryland residents file auto injury claims and obtain the compensation they deserve.
In today’s post, we’re sharing four of the most common accident scenarios that we see in Maryland, and how you can take steps to avoid them. Continue scrolling to learn more about these frightening situations, then contact our car accident injury lawyers to schedule a free consultation regarding your own case.
Rear-End Collisions
According to the National Highway Safety Traffic Administration (NHTSA), rear-end collisions are the most commonly occurring type of car crash, accounting for 29 percent of all car accidents nationwide. This is no less true in Maryland, where rear-end collisions are shockingly prevalent as well. Therefore, it’s important to stay informed about what rear-end collisions look like, how they are typically caused, who is responsible for the damages, and how you can seek legal recourse.
A rear-end collision, as the name implies, occurs when one vehicle runs into the back of another. This often happens when the car in front is stopped or moving slowly, and the car behind doesn’t realize this fact soon enough. Distracted driving, such as texting or talking on the phone while behind the wheel, is the most common reason why the rear-end collision might occur, but speeding, tailgating, and a number of other factors can also be to blame.
In general, the car that’s following is at fault for rear-end collisions. Even if the car in front stops suddenly and surprisingly, it’s expected that all drivers leave enough room between them and the car in front of them to stop in time. This isn’t always the case, but it’s a good rule of thumb to keep in for most situations.
To avoid rear-end collisions, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and to pay attention to the road at all times. You should also leave plenty of space between you and the vehicle ahead of you. If you notice that the vehicle ahead of you is slowing down or stopping, you should slow down and leave enough room so that you can stop without hitting it.
If you do find yourself in a rear-end collision, there are steps you can take to lessen its impact on your life. However, there are countless factors — as well as laws and regulations — that can influence your specific case. That’s why it’s essential to get in touch with a trusted car accident attorney in Baltimore, such as the ones at Murphy, Falcon & Murphy. We can help you understand the ins and outs of your auto accident claim, helping you determine who was at fault and how you may be able to receive legal compensation.
T-Bone Accidents
T-bone accidents, also referred to as side-impact collisions, occur when one vehicle hits the side of another vehicle. These types of accidents can be particularly dangerous because the occupants of the impacted vehicle are not as well-protected as in front-end or rear-end collisions. The most common causes of T-bone accidents include running red lights, making illegal turns, and not yielding the right of way.
The best way to avoid ending up in a T-bone collision is by practicing defensive driving techniques. Always obey traffic laws and pay attention to your surroundings on the road. Additionally, you should educate yourself on who has the right of way at different types of intersections, so you can make safer decisions while behind the wheel.
T-bone collisions are especially frightening, as they can have serious consequences that can impact all parties involved for the rest of their lives. If your lifestyle or well-being has been affected by a T-bone collision, we encourage you to schedule a free consultation with one of our friendly and knowledgeable car accident attorneys in Baltimore. We can look over the details of your case and determine whether you may be able to benefit from filing a claim.
Accidents With Buses and Commercial Vehicles
Accidents involving buses and other large commercial vehicles, such as semi-trucks, can be particularly hazardous due to the size and weight of these vehicles. The most common causes of these types of accidents include driver fatigue, distracted driving, and improper vehicle maintenance.
To steer clear of accidents involving buses and large commercial vehicles in Maryland, it’s important to always be aware of their presence on the road. You should give these vehicles plenty of space to switch lanes and turn, and you should avoid lingering in their blind spots or cutting them off.
Accident claims involving buses or commercial vehicles can be exceptionally complicated, since corporate insurance companies and even government entities might get dragged into the legal proceedings. To give you the best chance of winning your case, you’ll want to enlist the help of a local auto accident lawyer that has a proven track record of success.
Accidents With Impaired or Negligent Drivers
Accidents involving impaired or negligent drivers are unfortunately all too common in Maryland. These accidents can be caused by a driver operating a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or even by a driver who is distracted or fatigued.
You can help keep yourself safe from these accidents by looking out for suspicious driving behaviors on the road. If you notice another vehicle swerving or speeding recklessly, move yourself out of danger and call 911 as soon as it’s safe to do so.
We hope you never find yourself in a motor vehicle accident, but if you do, make sure you contact Murphy, Falcon & Murphy for legal representation. We can make sure your rights are protected, and we’ll strive to get you the compensation you’re entitled to.
