Types of Car Accidents

Whilst we mostly hear about car-on-car accidents on our roads, many people are unaware of just how many other factors contribute to mishaps on the roads. Accidents involving pedestrians, cyclists, animals and motorcyclists occur every day. In this article, we've outlined ways to become more savvy on the road to prevent accidents from happening. If you or a loved one has been in an accident - read this article for some guidance on what to do once the accident has happened.

Car accidents involving pedestrians

A significant number of causes for accidents involving pedestrians are a result of people not keeping alert. Whilst minor, these distractions could end up fatal. Some of the causes can be attributed to the following:

Discussions with friends
Talking on a cellphone whilst in traffic heavy areas
Reading a magazine or book whilst walking
Text messaging
Listening to loud music so that one cannot hear car hooting/warnings
Paying attention to other people surrounding scenarios
Searching for something in a bag or backpack
Gazing at a wristwatch when crossing the road

Helpful hints: How to avoid a car accident

Always walk on the crosswalk and sidewalk
If you're walking on a road without sidewalks, walk facing on-coming traffic
Cross only at intersections
Look left, right and left again for traffic
Ensure that you are visible to drivers, especially at night
Children should not be allowed to play on the roads unsupervised
When walking in the dark, always carry a flashlight

Accidents involving cyclists

Due to the considerable increase in the number of critical accidents concerning cyclists, the safety of cyclists has become a key concern on the South African roads. To avoid a car accident with a cyclist, please read through these safety precautions and guidelines:

Rules of the road: Obeyed at all times
Strength in numbers: It's always safer to cycle in a group
Always be vigilant: Avoid distractions such as iPods or cellphone conversations
Steer clear of speeding: Especially behind a moving vehicle
Eyewear: Good protection against harsh changing weather conditions, bugs and the wind is a good idea
Helmet: Wear a helmet at all times to avoid head injuries
Night riding: It is advised that you refrain from riding in the dark, if you do - ensure you are wearing reflective gear or using headlights so you will be visible to divers
Road conditions: Be alert of bad road or surface conditions such as portholes, glass fragments, rubble and debris
Family: Let someone in the family or loved ones be informed when you do go cycling - let them know your route as well as the expected time of your return
Be visible: Always wear reflective and fluorescent clothing so as to be visible to all road users

Accidents involving motorcyclists

Statistics regarding accidents are frightening - many reports involve motorcyclists, too. Below are a few handpicked examples of horrific statistics concerning motorcycle accidents.

According to statistics, just about three quarters of reported motorcycle accidents involve collision between a motorcycle and passenger vehicle
An estimated half of the reported motorcyclist accidents are implicated by alcohol
A percentage of 62 motorcycle accidents, post- crash phase, is directed to the fuel system leaks and spills

How to avoid motorcycle / car accidents:

Where possible, steer clear of bad / reckless drivers
Be courteous and give way to faster traffic
As often as possible, signal your intentions
Do not rely solely on peripheral vision or mirrors - do head checks as well
Steer clear of large trucks, vans and vehicles which may obscure your view
Unless if you are passing, keep left
Be wary of vehicles turning right across your path

The best way to avoid any car accident is to remain vigilant and aware. If you're interested in finding out more about Car Insurance with Hollard, please feel free to get in touch with us to discuss the best solution to meet you and your family's needs.

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