What’s the Most Common Automobile Accident?
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Which Types of Car Accidents Are Most Common?

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What's the Most Common Automobile Accident in San Diego, CA

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There are nearly 300 million registered vehicles in the United States. This means there’s the potential to experience automobile accidents that vary in degree of seriousness. While it’s always best to be cautious while driving, it also helps to know what types of vehicle accidents are common so the most appropriate precautions can be taken. The professionals at Altra Insurance Services, the premier providers of auto insurance San Diego drivers trust for reliable, high-quality service, explain which types of auto accidents happen most frequently.

Rear-End Collisions

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, rear-end collisions top the list of the most common automobile accidents that regularly happen in the United States each year. Accounting for nearly 30 percent of all vehicle-related accidents, rear-end collisions are more likely to occur at slower speeds. In fact, many rear-end collisions occur when the lead vehicle isn’t moving at all, such as when stopped at a red light.

Head-On Collisions

Rear-end collisions are more likely to result in fairly minor vehicle damage and few or no injuries if low speeds are involved. Head-on collisions, on the other hand, are the most dangerous type of automobile accident. This is why front-impact vehicle collisions result in more deaths than any other type of car accident. Statistically, head-on accidents are more likely to occur in areas without medians. Exceeding the speed limit is another factor that increases the risk of having a head-on collision while driving.

Side-Impact/T-Bone Accidents

Also referred to as “T-bone” accidents, side-impact collisions have been occurring with increasing frequency in recent years. These accidents usually occur when one driver fails to yield to another driver who has the right of way. Suggested reasons for the rising frequency of these accidents include increased vehicle speeds over the past 20 years and a greater number of full-size and compact SUVs on the road.

Single-Car Collisions

These are automobile accidents in which the driver’s car impacts another object that isn’t a vehicle—for example, when a car collides with a guardrail or a tree. These types of accidents are more likely to be caused by driving under the influence or while distracted. Weather and road conditions also increase the risk of experiencing a single-car collision.

Low-Speed Collisions

Rear-end collisions can fall into this category, but low-speed accidents can also be head-on or side-impact crashes. Low-speed auto accidents are more likely to occur when pulling out of a driveway or driving in a crowded parking lot. On a related note, the National Safety Council points out claims typically jump for low-speed car accidents during the holiday season, when parking lots are often packed.

Preventing Automobile Accidents

You can reduce your risk of experiencing any type of car accident by being a safe, attentive driver. Also, avoid driving while sleepy, since drowsy driving is responsible for nearly 75,000 crashes annually. Further minimize your accident risk while driving by:

• Properly adjusting and cleaning your mirrors
• Avoiding distractions when driving
• Leaving sufficient space between your car and vehicles around you
• Being mindful of driving, weather, and road conditions 

Whether you’ve been in an accident or not, it’s important to make sure you find the most affordable car insurance to protect yourself in the future. If you need affordable, reliable auto & car insurance in National City, look no further than the trustworthy pros at Altra Insurance Services. We can take care of a variety of your insurance needs, including motorcycle, homeowners, and business insurance. Give us a call today at (619) 404-6311 to find out more about our high-quality insurance products and impeccable service.

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