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What makes an angle collision so dangerous?

On Behalf of | Oct 5, 2024 | Auto Accidents

There are many different types of crashes that can occur in traffic, and each has its own degree of risk. One of the most important factors, other than the speed of the vehicles, is the angle of approach when the collision occurs.

According to the National Safety Council, angle collisions or side-impact crashes are the deadliest type of crash. They are responsible for more fatalities than head-on collisions, rear-end collisions and any other type of wreck, like sideswipes. That statistic often feels counterintuitive to people, who naturally fear head-on collisions more than other types of crashes.

What makes an angle collision so dangerous for the people involved?

The lack of safety systems

Airbags and seat belts help to protect people in head-on and rear-end collisions. Although some manufacturers do now install side-impact airbags and design vehicles to better absorb the force of an angle collision, many vehicles, especially those that are more than a few years old, do not have side impact protection. The side of the vehicle can be particularly vulnerable in the event of a collision. There may not be much to shield the occupants from the force of impact.

The inability to respond

Someone noticing a driver approaching too quickly from behind can potentially swerve out of the way or accelerate to avoid a collision or at least reduce its severity. Those who see a driver swerve into their lane and create a head-on crash risk can also try to stop or maneuver their vehicle to avoid a crash.

Many angle collisions occur when one vehicle turns. The driver in the vehicle that absorbs the impact often has very few options for responding when they notice the approaching vehicle. They may not be able to speed up, slow down or maneuver to avoid the crash.

It is also worth noting that the design of restraint systems in vehicles prioritizes adults and those in the front seat. Children, who often occupy the rear seats, are particularly vulnerable to injury and death in an angle collision scenario.

Learning about the factors that contribute to safety risks can help people protect themselves and better respond after a motor vehicle collision. The party at fault for an angle collision may have to provide victims with compensation through insurance or possibly after a lawsuit.