Car accidents happen every day, and they happen more often than you may think. In 2020 alone, there were 5,250,837 car accidents reported in the United States. That’s right. There were over five million car accidents in 2020. If you or someone you know has been injured in a car accident, you may be entitled to justice and compensation.
At D’Amore Law Group, we have experienced Washington and Oregon personal injury attorneys who can help you with your car accident resolution. We know the legal process can be intimidating, especially if you are recovering from an accident. Below are some common causes and types of car accidents.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Oregon and Washington
About 94% of car accidents are caused by a vehicle’s driver, as opposed to environmental conditions or car malfunction. When a driver is the cause of an accident, you may be entitled to seek compensation through the driver’s insurance for your injuries and other losses. Below are some of the most common causes of car accidents in Oregon and Washington.
Distracted Driving
Drivers who are not paying attention to the road are much more likely to cause car accidents. For example, drivers can be distracted when they are eating or drinking, talking on the phone, using a GPS device, or tuning the radio. It’s never a good idea to allow yourself to be distracted while operating a vehicle, so try to avoid doing these things while you’re driving; your safety and the safety of others are just too important to take unnecessary risks.
Texting and Driving
Texting and driving is a major problem on the road, especially with young drivers. In fact, 48 out of the 50 states have implemented laws that prohibit texting and driving. The dangers of texting and driving are so significant because sending or reading a text takes an average of about five seconds. During those five seconds, you can travel more than the length of a football field. We recommend you put your phone on silent mode when driving or choose to respond to text messages after you’ve finished your trip.
Intoxication
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a serious risk that can result in deadly consequences. In the United States, about 32 people die in drunk-driving crashes every single day. Both Oregon and Washington encourage you to call 911 if you are aware of a drunk driver on the road.
Speeding
Speeding is another major cause of vehicular accidents. If someone is speeding, they may not have enough time to stop when needed or to avoid a collision. Speeding can lead to a wide range of accidents, including the other types of accidents listed here. And it obviously increases the severity of those accidents.
Reckless Driving
Reckless drivers often engage in risky driving behaviors like running red lights, not stopping at a stop sign, and changing lanes without looking. Reckless driving puts everyone on the road at risk of an accident.
Different Types of Car Accidents in Oregon and Washington
What are the different types of car accidents? Below is a list of some of the most common.
Rear-End Accidents
Rear-end accidents are usually caused by drivers who are not paying attention to the road. While they typically aren’t deadly crashes, they are the most common type of crash in the United States. And they can result in some severe injuries, especially to the head and neck. The liability in these accidents usually falls with the driver colliding with the car in front of them, as you are generally obligated to ensure there is enough space between you and the car in front of you.
Head-on Collisions
A head-on collision occurs when two vehicles collide head first. These types of accidents can be very serious, and they often occur when someone is driving on the wrong side of the road. In head-on collisions, there is usually negligence involved.
Highway Construction Accidents
While construction companies generally have a duty not to cause accidents, it is wise to drive with extra caution when going through a construction zone. Further, you want to keep an eye out for construction workers to avoid an accident with a pedestrian.
Side Impact Collisions
Side-Impact collisions are sometimes referred to as “T-bone accidents.” These accidents often occur in the middle of an intersection when one driver fails to stop or yield to a yellow light. Side-impact collisions often involve an intoxicated driver or a reckless driver.
Interstate Accidents
Interstate accidents are among the most deadly types of accidents due to higher speeds on the highways. Even if you’re in a rush, it is crucial to drive the speed limit when traveling on the interstate.
Multiple Vehicle Collisions
Sometimes referred to as “pileups,” multiple-vehicle collisions usually occur on busy roads or highways. The odds of a pileup increase during rush hour, so it’s best to drive with extra caution on your commute to and from work.
Sideswipe Accidents
Sideswipe accidents occur when two vehicles that are traveling in the same direction run into one another. These accidents often happen when a driver doesn’t check their blind spot as they attempt to change lanes. Sideswipes are sometimes due to drowsiness or reckless driving.
How Can D’Amore Law Group Help You?
At D’Amore Law Group, we have skilled attorneys available to help you after an auto accident. Don’t worry about the financial burden of hiring an attorney. We provide free case evaluations for all our clients and work on a contingent basis. We don’t get paid a fee until we win your case. We take on the risk of losing your case for you.
We have multiple convenient locations for you in Washington and Oregon. Please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to help.
