There are many types of car crashes that can occur on the road. Distracted drivers and tailgaters might rear-end other motorists. People under the influence of alcohol or struggling to read road signs might drive the wrong way on the street and cause a head-on collision.
Both of these types of crashes are dangerous, but angle collisions are even worse. According to collision statistics provided by the National Safety Council, angle collisions are responsible for more fatal crashes than any other type of car wreck. Roughly 44.9% of all deadly wrecks are angle collisions.
Also known as T-bone collisions, angle collisions occur when the front end of one vehicle strikes the side of another vehicle. What factors often contribute to the devastation commonly associated with angle collisions?
The speed of the vehicles
Angle collisions often occur when one vehicle travels at full speed or accelerates through an intersection and strikes a turning vehicle. As such, the amount of force generated is enough to damage both vehicles and injure their occupants.
Difficulty avoiding the crash
Those who see a vehicle stopped in front of them often swerve or slam on the brakes to try to avoid a rear-end collision. Similar reactions are all but instinctual in those at risk of a head-on collision.
In an angle collision scenario, the driver turning may not see the other vehicle coming. Even if they do, the driver is likely not in a position to make abrupt maneuvers that get them out of the route of the oncoming vehicle.
Inadequate vehicle safety systems
Many vehicle manufacturers only install the safety systems required by law. They have airbags and turn signals.
However, they may not have side impact airbags or reinforced structures that can withstand the force of an angle collision. The lack of safety features intended to protect occupants during angle collisions is one of the reasons these crashes often result in severe injuries or death.
People affected by major motor vehicle collisions often need help dealing with the aftermath. Filing an insurance claim or a lawsuit could be an appropriate reaction after a preventable motor vehicle collision. The driver at fault for an angle collision is typically liable for the impact the crash has on others.
