The types of accidents that occur in Nigeria are very similar to those that occur elsewhere in the world.
It is important to know the different types of accidents so that you can make informed decisions about how to prevent these events from occurring in your own life.
This article will discuss different types of accidents which occur in Nigeria, the causes of accidents, and how to avoid them.
What Is An Accident?
An accident is an event caused by some external cause that leads to injury or damage to people, property, and the environment. It can happen during any activity, be it work, sports, hobbies, and activities done outside the ordinary range of work.
The types of accidents vary according to the nature, cause, and extent of the damage. A negligence or wrongdoing infliction accident is one that occurs solely due to someone’s fault or lack of foresight.
An act or omission causing unintentional harm is not classified as a civil wrong but still an accident. Accidents happen on a daily basis in Nigeria, so it’s advised you have mobile insurance for your car and travel insurance in case of any emergency.
Most accidents occur because of negligent behavior by people who do not pay attention to the danger they are committing themselves and other people in. Moving further, we will discuss the 10 types of accidents, so you take note and be intentional about your movement.
10 Types of Accidents And Causes
Are you having difficulties understanding the different types of accidents? We are here to help.
There are many types of accidents and the most common types of accidents are:
- Car Accidents
- Backing Collision
- Child Accidents
- Merging Accidents
- Workplace Accidents
- Rear-end collision
- Rollover Accidents
- Sport Injuries
- Fall from heights
- Aviation Accidents
1. Car Accidents
Car accidents are a major type of accident in Nigeria, especially in Lagos, the commercial hub of Africa. It is an unplanned and often harmful event involving one or more vehicles frequently occurring on public roads and highways and can lead to serious injury or even death.
It highlights the importance of carrying a valid car insurance as a financial safety protection for your vehicle.
2. Backing Collision
A collision that occurs in parking lots, confined spaces, and drive ways. This type of accident happens when a vehicle reverses into another vehicle or stationary objects.
3. Child Accidents
Children are naturally curious and active which makes them prone to accidents. These incidents can occur anywhere, but most common places include homes, schools, and playgrounds.
4. Merging Accident
A merging accident occurs as a result when drivers fail to navigate the merging process properly which leads to collisions or near-miss incidents.
It also happens as a result of two traffic lanes converging or when vehicles enter a highway.
5. Workplace Accident
Any accidental event that occurs at work involving injury to an employee because of workplace hazards such as machinery, chemicals, and equipment.
These accidents can also involve equipment malfunctioning as well as unsafe working conditions like not wearing eye protection while using tools around machinery or handling chemicals inside containers without proper ventilation or protective gear.
6. Rear-end Collision
A rear-end collision basically involves the front end of one car crashing into the rear-end of one car crashing into the rear-end of another. It makes up the majority of traffic accidents.
7. Rollover Accidents
Rollover accidents often occurs when a driver suddenly swerves the steering wheel of his vehicle to avoid an obstacle causing the vehicle to lose control and tip over.
It is more likely to result in catastrophic injuries as the vehicle rolls over and collides with another vehicle.
8. Sport Injuries
Sport accidents are physical damages that occur during athletic activities or exercises. These injuries can range from minor aches and pain to serious underlying conditions that will require medical attention.
Athletes participating in various sports, including football, basketball, and other physically demanding activities, are at higher risk of experiencing these injuries.
9. Fall from Heights
A fall from heights occurs when a person falls from an elevated position to a lower level. This type of accident happens in various setting such as workplace, homes, and public spaces. It is very common in construction sites which are high risk environment for such accidents.
Fall from heights can result to severe fractures, internal bleeding, and even fatalities.
10. Aviation Accidents
Aviation accidents are relatively rare but are catastrophic due to its significant impact. It can occur during any phase of flight, from takeoff to landing phase or in the air.
It is caused by a combination of human error, mechanical failure, air traffic control challenges, and weather conditions which results to serious injury, death, and substantial damage of the aircraft.
Other types of Accident
There are other types of accidents we have:
- Collision
- Falling
- Medical malpractice
- Repetitive stress injuries
- Slip and fall
- Slip & Trip Injury and
- Accidents that are caused by external influences.
Conclusion
Accidents happen all the time. They can be caused by many factors, including:
- Driving too fast and failing to break in time
- Falling downstairs while carrying groceries or a child
- Slipping on ice, snow, or other slippery material
- Being hit by something as simple as a car door or as serious as a falling object.
Therefore, remove any objects that can cause accidents in the home and objects in the back seat of your car or truck before getting behind the wheel. Be more careful because as tempting as it may be to do otherwise, accidents can occur.
Frequently Asked Questions
The most common types of accidents in Nigeria include rear-end collisions which involves when a vehicle hits the back of another vehicle, traffic accidents, and pedestrian injury accidents.
Prevent motor vehicle accidents by avoiding distractions, adhering to speed limits, and ensuring your car is well maintained.
If involved in a traffic accident, ensure everyone’s safety, contact emergency services, and exchange information with other parties involved.
Workplace accidents are common due to unsafe working conditions, lack of proper training, and inadequate use of protective equipment.
