Every day in California, countless drivers face the unexpected chaos of car crashes. Whether stuck in rush hour traffic or cruising down the freeway, the risk of a collision is never far behind. Understanding the most common types of car accidents is key to protecting yourself and your rights if the unthinkable happens.
This guide breaks down the five most frequent crashes in the state—and what to do if you’re involved. Knowing what steps to take can make all the difference in your recovery and case. Let’s explore what you need to know next.
1. Rear-End Collisions
One common type of car accident linked to speeding is rear-end collisions, which made up 35.1% of all crashes that resulted in death or serious injury. They often occur during traffic congestion or when a driver is distracted by a phone or GPS. Even at low speeds, these accidents can lead to severe injuries, such as whiplash or spinal damage.
Insurance companies usually presume the rear driver is at fault, but this isn’t always the case, especially when reckless driving or faulty brake lights are involved. Gathering the right evidence can help support your insurance claim if you’ve been injured in an accident.
Steps to take:
- Seek immediate medical care, even for minor symptoms.
- Report the incident to law enforcement and obtain the police report.
- Document visible bodily injuries and property damage.
- Avoid giving recorded statements to the at-fault driver’s insurer without legal advice.
2. T-Bone Accidents (Side-Impact Crashes)
T-bone accidents, also known as side-impact crashes, often occur at intersections when a driver runs a red light or fails to yield. These crashes can result in traumatic brain injuries, internal bleeding, or even traffic fatalities, especially when the impact is on the driver’s side.
Proving fault can be challenging in these situations. California law requires a thorough investigation, including witness statements, traffic camera footage, and accident reconstruction when needed.
T-Bone Accident Legal Tips:
- Preserve any dashcam footage.
- Talk to witnesses and collect their contact information.
- Consult accident lawyers early to protect your rights.
3. Head-On Collisions
Although less frequent, head-on collisions are among the deadliest types of car accidents. In 2022, frontal crashes resulted in the highest number of occupant fatalities—14,860 deaths. Of those killed, fewer than half (44%) were wearing seat belts, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Victims often suffer life-altering bodily injuries, resulting in long-term medical needs and significant financial losses. A robust legal strategy is essential to pursue maximum compensation for damages.
Imagine a driver struck head-on by a speeding vehicle that veered into the wrong lane. The injured party suffered multiple fractures and a spinal injury, requiring surgery and months of physical therapy.
| Type of Damage | Example |
| Medical Expenses | Emergency surgery, hospital stay, ongoing rehab |
| Lost Wages | 6 months of missed work and reduced long-term earnings |
| Pain and Suffering | Chronic back pain and emotional distress |
| Vehicle Replacement | Total loss of the vehicle due toproperty damage |
4. Multi-Car Pileups
Pileups are chain-reaction crashes typically caused by distracted driving, poor weather, or sudden braking on highways. They are legally complex because multiple drivers may share liability.
California follows a comparative fault system. This means even if you’re partly at fault, you can still recover damages, but your award will be reduced based on your share of the blame.
What you should do:
- Don’t admit fault at the scene.
- Take wide-angle photos to capture all involved vehicles.
- Keep copies of all medical records and repair bills.
- Review your insurance policy details.
5. Rollover Accidents
Rollover accidents often involve SUVs or trucks and are frequently linked to high speeds or sharp turns. These crashes can result in catastrophic outcomes, from traumatic brain injuries to paralysis.
Third parties—like the carmaker or government entity—may be liable if a manufacturing defect or unsafe road conditions caused your rollover.
Potential causes of rollover crashes:
- Tire blowouts
- Defective suspension systems
- Unmarked road hazards
- Single-vehicle crashes due to evasive maneuvers
Navigating Personal Injury Claims in California
Regardless of the types of car accidents, personal injury claims in California hinge on proving negligence and demonstrating how the crash affected your life, physically, emotionally, and financially. From emotional distress to ongoing medical care, every detail matters.
Working with our Hawthorne car accident lawyer can help accident victims build a strong case by collecting evidence, negotiating with insurers, and fighting for the compensation they deserve.
Get the Help You Deserve
No one ever expects to be in an auto accident, but being prepared and informed can help you protect your health and rights. If you or a loved one has been involved in any of these types of car accidents, don’t navigate the legal system alone.
Our compassionate and award-winning Hawthorne car accident lawyer can provide the guidance you need to secure justice and maximum compensation. Contact us today for a free consultation and start building your case.
