Car accidents are one of life’s many unfortunate circumstances. And while it’s difficult to escape having at least one mishap during your lifetime, you can minimize your risk. As the collision repair experts at DADS Auto Body and Paint Shop in Aiea, HI, explain, knowing which types of accidents are most likely to happen will help you to avoid them.

Here, the collision repair shop discusses the five most common types of crashes:

• Merging Mishaps: When you merge onto a highway or into another lane of traffic, your chances of being sideswiped or clipping someone else increase. Check your blind spots before changing lanes or merging. Don’t simply trust your side mirror.
• Rear-End Accidents: Rear-end collisions are the most common type of car accident, although they typically don’t cause too much damage or injury. Be careful to keep a reasonable distance between you and the car in front of you. To minimize your risk of being rear-ended, don’t slam on your breaks unless it is necessary to prevent an accident.
• Single-Car Accidents: Accidents with just one car typically involve a vehicle leaving the road, slipping on ice and spinning, or hitting a sturdy object. Avoid this type of accident by driving at the speed limit — or below if inclement weather warrants it.
• Fender Benders: Accidents that occur while a vehicle is traveling under 10 mph often happen in parking lots and neighborhoods. Always obey the speed limit, watch for children and pedestrians, and take special care when backing up.
• Intersection Collisions: It’s unfortunate, but occasionally a serious accident occurs when a driver runs a red light or stop sign. Be on the lookout for other drivers who may not be driving responsibly. A good rule of thumb is to never step on the gas the second your light turns green. Wait a few seconds to make sure another driver hasn’t decided to run a red light through your intersection when it’s your turn to go.

Even responsible, safe drivers have accidents, and anyone can be a victim of someone else’s negligence. If any of these car accidents happen to you, trust your vehicle to the collision repair shop at DADS Auto Body and Paint Shop on Oahu, HI. With computerized frame straightening, dent removal, and quality collision repair services, their expert technicians will have your car back on the road in no time. Call (808) 487-3654 to schedule an appointment, and visit their website for more information.