5 Things You Can Do to Avoid Broadside Collisions

A broadside collision is a type of car accident in which the front of one car rams into the side of another vehicle, which usually occurs at high speed.

Although all accidents that occur on the road have the potential to cause serious injuries and even fatalities, broadside accidents have an increased risk of this happening. In the event of an accident, you should consult an accident injury lawyer to facilitate any injury claims that you may have, as well as to protect your rights in any resulting situation.

Before we delve into how you can prevent broadside collisions, you first need to understand why and where they commonly happen. Intersections are synonymous with broadside accidents, as this is where they commonly occur. This is largely caused by the perpendicular flow of cars, which creates an optimal condition for one vehicle to slam into the side of another. That being said, let us look at five tips you can implement to lower your chances of being involved in a broadside accident.

1. Be Cautious When You are Crossing Any Intersection

The majority of broadside collisions take place at points of intersections on roads. To avoid a broadside collision, you should be very cautious at these points of intersection and watch out for erratic drivers. Before crossing an intersection, check both directions at least twice.

2. Look Out for Trucks

Trucks pose the highest risk for serious injuries or even fatalities in the event of a broadside accident. Heavy trucks, such as 18-wheelers and those pulling trailers, take longer than the average vehicle to slow down to a complete stop. Such heavy trucks may not be able to stop in time to prevent a T-bone crash, which can result in fatalities. Therefore, we recommend that you wait for a longer period when you see a truck approaching an intersection to be sure that it can stop in time. Once you are certain that the truck has stopped, you can then proceed to cross the intersection.

3. Be Aware at all Times

This is perhaps the most important tip you should apply to your daily driving to lower your chances of being involved in a broadside collision.

As you drive, ensure that you are aware of your surroundings as this can help you spot another vehicle and take preventative measures to ensure that you are not T-boned. Being aware will also prevent you from causing a broadside accident. Being aware of your surroundings means not driving while under the influence.

Alcohol and other drugs result in impaired judgement, and driving under the influence adversely affects your driving and awareness, putting you and other road users at risk. Remember, your safety on the road starts with you.

4. Take Note of the Driving Conditions

Driving in bad weather conditions such as heavy rain, fog, or snow increases the likelihood of broadside collisions as the visibility levels are lower. You should, as a result, be more cautious at intersections when the driving conditions are bad.

5. Have a Good Driving Attitude

Driving with a bad attitude can cause you to take risks, such as intentionally running a red light. To avoid this, practice good driving etiquette and have a good attitude to prevent accidents.