Bart Durham Personal Injury News & Blog

Common Car Accidents (And Who's at Fault)

Written by Bart Durham Injury Law | Aug 23, 2024 2:45:00 PM

Car accidents are an unfortunate reality of modern life. Understanding the most common types of car accidents and determining fault can help drivers avoid collisions and know what to do if they find themselves involved in one.

Let’s explore various types of car accidents, who is typically at fault, and how a car accident lawyer in Nashville like Bart Durham Injury Law can help. 

Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end collisions occur when one vehicle crashes into the back of another. These accidents are often caused by tailgating, distracted driving, or sudden stops.

Generally, the driver who rear-ends the other vehicle is at fault. The reasoning is that drivers are expected to maintain a safe following distance and be attentive to the traffic conditions ahead.

Side-Impact Collisions

Side-impact collisions, also known as "T-bone" accidents, happen when the front of one vehicle strikes the side of another. These usually occur at intersections when one driver fails to yield the right of way.

The driver who ran a red light or stop sign is typically at fault. However, determining fault can be complicated if both drivers claim they had the right of way, necessitating witness statements or video evidence.

Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions are among the most severe types of car accidents, often resulting in serious injuries or fatalities. These occur when two vehicles traveling in opposite directions collide front-to-front.

Fault is usually attributed to the driver who crossed into the oncoming lane, often due to distracted driving, impaired driving, or falling asleep at the wheel.

Multi-Vehicle Pile-Ups

Multi-vehicle pile-ups involve three or more vehicles and can be extremely complex regarding fault determination. These accidents often occur in high-traffic areas or during adverse weather conditions.

Fault is typically distributed among multiple drivers, and a thorough investigation is required to determine each driver's degree of responsibility.

Single-Vehicle Accidents

Single-vehicle accidents involve only one car and can include incidents like hitting a tree, guardrail, or animal. These accidents are generally caused by driver error, such as speeding, distracted driving, or avoiding a sudden obstacle.

The driver is usually considered at fault, but external factors like poor road conditions or mechanical failure can also play a role.

Car Accident Lawyer in Nashville: When to Seek Legal Help

Understanding who is at fault in a car accident is crucial for insurance claims and potential lawsuits. A car accident lawyer in Nashville can help you navigate these complexities, ensuring you receive fair compensation. They can assist with gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and representing you in court if necessary.

Car accidents can lead to a wide range of injuries, from minor to life-threatening. Common injuries include whiplash, broken bones, concussions, internal injuries, cuts, and bruises.

Regardless of the severity, it's essential to seek medical attention immediately after an accident to document your injuries and begin necessary treatments.

Bart Durham Injury Law: Your Trusted Advocate

When you are involved in a car accident, having a trusted legal advocate is essential. Bart Durham Injury Law has been serving Kentucky and Tennessee for decades, providing expert legal assistance to accident victims.

We specialize in personal injury law and have a proven track record of securing favorable outcomes for our clients.

If you or a loved one has been involved in any type of auto accident, don't hesitate to reach out to Bart Durham Injury Law. Our experienced car and truck accident lawyers based in Nashville are ready to help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you need to move forward. 

Visit us at Bart Durham Injury Law to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward the justice and compensation you deserve!