Florida is one of the most dangerous states for drivers and roadway users. According to the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Department, some 200,0000 car accidents occur in the state of Florida every year, with an average of 650 crashes per day. While some collisions are minor and result in no or minor injuries; others are massive. The severity of the injuries is often reflected in the type of car accident and the speeds traveled during the time of impact.
Florida’s most common multi-vehicle accidents include rear-end collisions, side collisions, head-on collisions, and sideswipe crashes.
Rear-End Collisions in Florida
Rear-end collisions are the most common type of crash on Florida’s roadways. They are often caused by distracted driving or tailgating. The most common injury that accompanies a rear-end collision is whiplash, a condition that results from the front vehicle driver’s neck moving forward and back quickly.
Side-Impact Collisions
Also known as T-bone crashes, these collisions occur when a vehicle drives head-on into the side of another vehicle. These types of crashes often happen in intersections, when two parties attempt to cross the roadway at the same time. They are typically caused by a driver’s failure to yield the right of way to oncoming vehicles – which can be the result of distracted driving or running a red light, among other blunders. Victims in T-bone collisions often suffer extensive injuries, because the side of a vehicle offers a thin layer of protection to occupants.
Sideswipe Crashes
Sideswipe crashes happen when two vehicles moving in the same direction merge into one another. This happens often when one or both vehicles attempt to merge into the same lane. Sideswipe accidents are also caused by distracted driving, as well as failure to check blind spots and speeding. Injuries sustained from sideswipe impacts can vary, dependent upon the speed of the vehicles when contact is made, weather, and reactive actions by the drivers.
Head-on Collisions
Head-on collisions are crashes that involve two vehicles striking each other from the front of the vehicle. These high-impact crashes are often the result of a driver making a left turn into oncoming traffic. Because the accident involves the full force of both vehicles, injuries from head-on collisions are often severe and worsen with increases in speed.
If you were recently in a vehicular accident due to a driver’s negligence, it is important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure the proper steps are taken to document injuries and damage and obtain justice. The team at Cohen & Newmark is nationally recognized for its reputation for helping car accident victims obtain the support and care they deserve. Schedule your free consultation today by calling 1-800-CALL-LEE.
