From simple fender-benders to deadly pile-ups, Utah witnessed a car accident about every 8 minutes during 2023. Among those 62,203 vehicle accidents, 250 people lost their lives, and a further 18,495 were injured.
Unsurprisingly, rear-end crashes were the most common type of car accident in Utah, accounting for 18.61 percent of all collisions. These were closely followed by angle crashes, at 23.72 percent. Mercifully, terrifying head-on collisions only accounted for 1.87 percent of the total.
Whatever type of car accident you have had, you only need one type of law firm – one with a proven track record of delivering outstanding results and truly caring about its clients. The car accident attorneys at Siegfried & Jensen are ready to discuss your case and demonstrate why we are the right choice for you. Set up a free case evaluation by calling us at (801) 845-9000 or filling out our online contact form.
Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions are not just the most common type of car accident in Utah but in the entire country as well. Low-speed rear-end collisions can result from a moment’s inattention when stopping at traffic lights; these may only result in damage to your vehicle.
On the other hand, serious rear-end crashes can be fatal, or lead to injuries such as:
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Whiplash
- Spinal injuries
Rear-end crashes are often the result of tailgating (driving too close to the car in front of you). In 2023, this reason was cited in 11,575 Utah accidents.
Other reasons include:
- Aggressive driving
- Speeding
- Low visibility in poor weather conditions
Angle Crashes
In 2023, there were 14,755 angle crashes in Utah, accounting for 23.72 percent of all collisions. While rear-end crashes might be the most common type of accidents nationally, angle crashes are the most deadly. The National Safety Council reported that angle crashes were responsible for 9,000 deaths in 2021.
Angle accidents are also known as T-bone collisions. One car hits another at a 90-degree angle, forming the letter “T.” Such accidents are most common when drivers fail to heed stop lines or traffic lights at intersections and collide with a vehicle that has the right-of-way.
The statistics show that:
- 38.87 percent of crashes happened when a vehicle failed to yield the right-of-way
- 6.28 percent were caused by ignoring traffic signals
- 31 percent happened at intersections
Angle collisions can be particularly dangerous because vehicles are relatively vulnerable at their sides. The collision typically results in a more direct impact on the individuals inside the car. Not only is this terrifying, but the resulting injuries can be catastrophic.
Sideswipe Accidents
Sideswipe accidents typically occur when one or both drivers fail to check their blind spots. These collisions often happen on the freeway when drivers are changing lanes or when a vehicle is joining from an on-ramp.
Causes of sideswipe accidents can include:
- Distracted driving
- Fatigue, leading to inattention
- Failing to yield to merging vehicles
- Road rage
Sideswipe accidents can be particularly dangerous because our knee-jerk reaction may be to steer away from the vehicle when it makes contact. This can cause us to collide with other vehicles, potentially leading to pile-ups.
Proving liability in a sideswipe accident can be challenging, especially if it is the catalyst for further collisions. Do not discuss your accident with the insurance company, as it is in their interests to make you liable for the accident. Instead, talk to a Siegfried & Jensen car accident attorney with experience handling complex cases.
Parked Vehicle Collisions
In 2023, 6.26 percent of the total crashes in Utah involved parked vehicles. It is likely that most of these happened while maneuvering the vehicle. Although many cars now have sensors and rear cameras, human error can still lead to collisions.
Although parked vehicle collisions usually happen at low speeds, they can still cause serious injuries. You do not have to be traveling fast to experience the head and neck movements that cause whiplash or even mild concussions.
After hitting a parked vehicle, Utah law requires that you either find the owner or leave a conspicuous written notice containing your contact details. If you were hurt and feel that the owner parked the car illegally, you can talk to a Siegfried & Jensen lawyer about your legal options.
Head-On Collisions
While relatively rare, head-on collisions were responsible for 16 percent of fatal accidents throughout Utah in 2023. Head-on crashes are often the result of reckless overtaking maneuvers, drugs, alcohol, or falling asleep at the wheel.
Head-on crashes often cause serious injuries, including:
- Severe facial and dental trauma due to collision with airbag/steering wheel
- Spinal cord injuries
- Whiplash
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Blunt force trauma to the vital organs
If your injuries are severe, it is even more important to take steps to protect your legal rights. Any settlement offered by an insurance company is unlikely to take into account the full impact of your injuries and suffering.
Instead, entrust your case to an experienced car accident attorney at Siegfried & Jensen. Our legal team can thoroughly investigate your case and go to bat for you, representing you in negotiations and in court if needed.
Most Common Attributes in Utah Car Crashes
The common attribute cited in 2023 Utah crash data was “teen driver involved.” Teens were involved in 12,686 accidents.
The next most common attributes were:
- Speed related: 9,344 crashes
- Older driver involved: 8,802 accidents
- Holiday related: 8,335 collisions
- Distraction: 4,866 crashes
Whatever the circumstances of your accident, don’t quickly assume that you do not have a case. The situation may not be as bleak as it seems right now.
You have nothing to lose by scheduling a free case evaluation with a Siegfried & Jensen car accident attorney. In just one consultation, we can tell you whether you have a strong case for compensation.
What to Do After a Utah Car Accident
Even if your car accident seems minor, you should get yourself checked out by a medical professional. Some potentially serious conditions – including concussions, spinal injuries, and whiplash – may not cause any symptoms until hours later. Retain records of all doctors’ visits and medical bills to strengthen your case in the future.
If you are able, try to document the scene. Take photographs and gather the contact details of the other drivers and any eyewitnesses. Take notes on your recollections of the accident.
After getting medical help, talk to a Siegfried & Jensen car accident attorney. Our lawyer will listen carefully to your story and provide tailored advice for your situation.
Let Experienced Siegfried & Jensen Car Accident Attorneys Handle Your Case
A car accident can leave you dazed, confused, and seeking answers. It can also leave you facing an ever-mounting pile of bills. At Siegfried & Jensen, we understand your situation is serious and that you need help from dedicated professionals.
Since 1990, we have fought for the rights of Utah residents who have been injured in car accidents. We have fought against and beaten the insurance bullies for decades – establishing a 97-percent success rate. If you choose to work with us, you can trust that we will put our all into fighting for the best result for you.
Now is the time to seek justice. Call (801) 845-9000 to schedule a free case evaluation. Alternatively, complete our online form, and we will contact you soon.
