Accidents happen. You can’t control the drivers around you, but you can control your driving. Driving carefully can go a long way in keeping you safe and your car in good shape. Let’s review some of the most common accidents and how to help avoid them.
Front-Impact
Front-impact collisions are when the front end of a vehicle hits another vehicle or an object. These types of crashes can cause serious damage. They often happen when the roads are slick from snow, ice, rain, or sleet. To avoid these crashes, limit your distractions in the car when the weather isn’t ideal. Also, be sure to drive slower than usual and give yourself more space to stop or slow down to lessen the chance of losing control of your vehicle.
In Minnesota, it is also essential to watch out for deer. Several accidents each year are caused by hitting a deer. Keep your eyes on the road and drive with your brights on when you are on country roads at night.
Rear-end collisions
When one person’s front end of their vehicle hits the back end of another person’s vehicle, it is called a rear-end collision. These typically happen in heavy traffic or if someone is driving aggressively. To avoid these accidents, give plenty of distance between you and the car in front of you. If someone is tailgating you, avoid slamming on the brakes and instead switch lanes and let them pass.
Parking lot collisions
These collisions are common because it is hard to see your surroundings while backing out of a parking spot. Back out of your parking lot slowly and turn your head both ways to look for other vehicles or pedestrians. If you have a rearview camera, that is a great way to check to see if someone is right behind you, but you still need to look to the sides to ensure nobody is coming.
T-bone
When a vehicle runs into the side of another vehicle, it is known as a T-bone collision. They often happen at intersections when there is confusion about whose turn it is to go or if someone isn’t paying attention. To avoid these crashes, be extra cautious at every intersection. If you are at a four-way stop, make eye contact with the other drivers to ensure they see you. At stoplights, slowly accelerate when the light turns green and keep your eyes on the road in case someone runs a red light.
If you happen to get into a collision, stop by Superior Collision Center! We will get your car back to its original condition. Give us a call to set up an appointment!