Rear-end collisions are one of the most common types of automobile accidents. In fact, it is estimated that there are more than 6,000 rear-end collisions per day nationwide. It is important that drivers are aware of the common causes of rear-end collisions as this will help them to prepare strategies that will prevent them from being involved in this type of accident. Here are a few of the most common causes of rear-end collisions as well as strategies for how you can avoid being involved in this type of accident.
Maintain a Constant, Legal Speed
Drivers who don’t typically pay attention to their speed may be surprised to find that they drive at erratic speeds. Many drive faster or slower than the speed of traffic, or worse their speed constantly varies. Driving erratically can put you at a greater risk of being involved in a rear-end collision. Driving too fast, too slow, and/or making sudden speed changes can cause you to run into the car in front of you, or cause the car behind to hit you. Maintaining a steady, safe speed can help you to prevent being involved in an accident.
Do Not Tailgate
Tailgating is a common cause of rear-end collisions. Driving too close to another car leaves you at risk if that car decreases speed or has to make a sudden stop. In this instance, if you were tailgating you would not have enough time to correct your speed, and you would likely hit the car in front of you. Another critical skill is to never rely solely on brake lights to gauge if the car in front of you is slowing. Engine braking (especially in manual transmission equipped cars) can drastically reduce a cars speed with no visual warning, which can easily cause an accident. By maintaining a safe following distance, you can help to ensure your safety on the road.
Do Not Make Sudden Lane Changes
Changing lanes is not something that should be done suddenly and without checking the safety of the surrounding situation. Oftentimes, individuals will make a sudden unplanned lane change only to find out that there is not enough room for their vehicle, which causes them to collide with the car ahead of them. Taking a moment to plan your lane changes will increase the safety of this maneuver and will decrease your likelihood of being involved in an accident.
Rear-end collisions are one of the most common types of automobile accidents. However, these accidents can oftentimes be easily avoiding by taking the time to drive safely. The best safety tip is to stay alert and aware of the other cars around you.