Introduction:
Car accidents are an unfortunate reality on the roads of Lake Charles, Calcasieu Parish, across Louisiana and the country. From fender benders to severe collisions, understanding the most common types of accidents can help you and other drivers avoid them while increasing safety for everyone on the road.
1. Rear-End Collisions
Caused by following too closely or sudden stops, rear-end collisions are one of the most frequent types of accidents.
Prevention Tip: Always maintain a safe following distance and be prepared for sudden braking, especially in high-traffic areas.
2. Side-Impact Collisions (T-bones)
Often occurring at intersections, T-bone accidents can be devastating.
Prevention Tip: Always look both ways before entering an intersection, even when you have the right of way. Be extremely cautious when making a left-hand turn at an intersection, always yielding to oncoming vehicles when making this maneuver.
3. Single-Vehicle Accidents
These accidents involve only one car, often due to driver distraction or hazardous road conditions.
Prevention Tip: Stay focused and drive carefully in bad weather or on poorly maintained roads.
4. Sideswipe Collisions
Happening frequently during lane changes, sideswipes are common in cities like Lake Charles, where narrow roads are prevalent.
Prevention Tip: Always check your blind spots and signal well in advance before changing lanes.
5. Multi-Vehicle Pileups
Multi-car accidents typically happen on highways and can lead to significant injuries.
Prevention Tip: Leave plenty of space between your car and others, and drive cautiously in heavy traffic.
6. Head-On Collisions
One of the most dangerous types of accidents, head-on collisions often result in severe injuries.
Prevention Tip: Stay in your lane, especially on two-lane roads and rural highways. Distracted, drunk, and even drowsy driving are top causes of head-on collisions. Stay alert while driving and be aware of others on the road.
7. Rollover Accidents
Vehicles with a high center of gravity, such as SUVs, are more likely to roll over in a crash.
Prevention Tip: Avoid sudden, sharp turns and drive carefully in high winds or uneven terrain.
8. Parking Lot Collisions
With cars backing out and pedestrians walking between vehicles, parking lots can be surprisingly dangerous.
Prevention Tip: Drive slowly and stay alert for pedestrians and other drivers.
9. Hit-and-Run Accidents
Drivers fleeing the scene can complicate these accidents.
Prevention Tip: If you’re involved in an accident, stay calm and never leave the scene. If the other driver flees the scene, document any available identifying details of the other car and call the police immediately.
10. Distracted Driving Accidents
Texting, eating, or using a phone while driving are common causes of accidents.
Prevention Tip: Keep your focus on the road at all times, and pull over if you need to use your phone.
Conclusion:
While accidents are sometimes unavoidable, being mindful of these common types can help reduce your risk. SWLA Injury Attorneys are here to assist Lake Charles drivers with legal support after an accident. We’re committed to helping you stay safe and recover quickly. For further information or if you have any more questions, call SWLA Injury Attorneys at (337) 419-SWLA and we’ll help you with anything we can.
