There are about 1.3 million fatalities from vehicle accidents every year. In the United States alone, it is assessed that an average of 6 million vehicle collisions happen annually. NHTSA reveals that rear-end accidents are responsible for about 29% of total vehicle crashes in the United States. These crashes occur when an automobile collides with the rear end of another car in the front.
Some typical reasons for rear-end accidents are distracted driving and staying too close to other vehicles. In addition, other factors that contribute to rear-end crashes include driving under the influence, poor visibility, harsh weather, and more. It is beneficial to talk to professional car accident attorneys to know more about rear end collisions and the compensation that may be available.
How to Avoid Rear-End Accidents: 6 Safety Tips
Rear-end collisions are one of the top reasons for road crashes. Here are the primary safety tips you can follow to deter rear-end vehicle accidents.
- Keep a Safe Distance
Regardless of if you are driving on city trunk roads, streets, or highways, keeping a safe distance is the best bet to avoid rear-end vehicle collisions. By following the safe distance, you can stop your vehicle during unexpected situations without crashing into the automobile at the front. Make sure to stick to the 3-second rule, which is a thoughtful method to double-check whether you are keeping a safe distance.
- Avoid Distractions
While driving, you should pay your full attention to the road and the surroundings. Even getting distracted for a few seconds may cause rear-end vehicle collisions. Using mobile phones while driving is the top cause of distracted driving. So, never use your mobile while driving as it can lead to dangerous situations.
- Check the Mirrors
Just like paying attention to the road ahead, checking your vehicle’s side mirrors to see what is happening at the back is also essential. Many professionals reveal that scanning the back view from the side mirrors will reduce the majority of rear-end collisions. It is because if you see another vehicle approaching at an alarming speed from the side mirrors, you can escape from the spot immediately to avoid getting collided.
- Consider the Weather Conditions
Poor weather conditions are one of the primary causes of rear-end vehicle crashes. As a result, considering the weather conditions and driving accordingly is essential to prevent accidents. There will be less visibility during extreme weather like fog, storms, or snow. While driving in low visibility conditions, make sure to move slowly and turn on low-beam headlights and indicator flashing lights.
- Check the Road Conditions
While driving, it is vital to check the condition of the road. For example, if there are too many potholes on the road, make sure to go at a slower speed. Likewise, if the road is in poor condition, it is better to drive slowly. Always be attentive to check for any diversion or any construction ahead signs. If required, you can stop your vehicle at the side to give way to other cars, which will reduce rear-end crash chances.
- Ensure the Condition of Brakes and Lights
Make sure that the brakes and lights of your vehicle are in working condition before driving. This way, you can use brakes to stop or slow down and prevent rear-end crashes if the car at the front suddenly changes the driving speed.
Bottom Line
Rear-end crashes are relatively underrated, but they are responsible for about one-third of total car accidents. Following the above safety tips will help you avoid getting into rear-end collisions. When involved in a rear-end vehicle accident, it is best to hire an attorney who will gather the required evidence and get you maximum compensation.