What is the Difference Between a Crash and an Accident?
Having the access to a vehicle makes life move faster for millions around the world. However, that also opens the door to collisions, mishaps, distracted driving accidents, and even fatal crashes. Each year, about 50 million people are injured and 1.3 million people die as a result of mishaps on roads across the globe, according to this report from the United Nations.
Most of us tend to classify any collision on the road as an accident, but some are considered “crashes”, which fall into a different category. So… why is it important to understand the difference between the two? If you’re ever involved in an auto collision, this understanding could be your saving grace when deciding to pursue legal action — especially if you are looking for compensation related to injuries, damages, or other needs.
What Does It Mean to Be In A Crash?
To put it simply, a crash is any collision that is due to the fault or carelessness of a person. For drivers, this is an auto collision that directly results from someone's negligence. At times, a crash can happen because of deliberate actions, but often, it is a lack of attention to the rules of the road.
There are various forms of crashes, depending on where the vehicles collide, including:
Head-on: As suggested by the name, this is a type of crash in which a vehicle collides with the head or front of another.
Pedestrian: This is a situation in which a car hits a pedestrian. This usually happens in places like the crosswalk.
Side-impact: This is a collision in which a vehicle crashes into the side of another. It is also referred to as a T-bone Collision.
Rear-end: This is a type of crash in which a vehicle hits the back of another.
What Happens In An Accident?
As you might imagine, an accident is any unexpected collision that results in loss or injury that is not caused by the misconduct of a person. Legal relief for damages is most often sought in these types of collisions, including the most common types of accidents: incidents with other cars, pedestrians, bicycles, etc.
Crash vs. Accident
The difference between a crash and an accident is quite simple. In an accident, the collision can’t be classified as intentional, and injuries or damages are not the fault of either driver. In a crash, however, damages are a direct result of someone’s negligence or misconduct.
This important legal distinction between the two terms determines whether you are eligible to make a claim for compensation. Some of the details will vary state by state, so it’s important to take advantage of resources like FindLaw.Com to fully understand your rights and responsibilities in either case.
What To Do If You Are In A Collision
As we’ve shared in previous posts, there are several important steps to take after you’ve been in a crash or accident. In the heat of the moment, it’s easy to forget what you should do first, so here’s a quick review of what should come next:
Prioritize Safety
Call for Help
Gather Information
File an Insurance Claim
Learn More
Auto collisions happen every day. If you know what to expect, you can reduce your stress in the moment and get back on the road again soon.
Download the TurnSignl app today to get real-time guidance from an attorney in your state during auto accidents and traffic stops. Chat face-to-face over video, and record through your phone’s own camera to support your insurance claim.
Be safe. Be empowered.
