Rear-end automobile accidents occur every day. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, roughly half of all car accidents in a recent three-year period were rear-end collisions. As you may suspect, if you find yourself in the middle of a rear-end crash, you may sustain injuries that are both serious and life-changing.
Some defensive driving and attention to the road in front of you diminish your chances of having a rear-end crash. By knowing what tends to cause this type of collision, you can better plan for staying safe on Texarkana’s many roadways. Here are four common reasons for rear-end accidents.
- Distracted driving
Distracted driving is a problem virtually everywhere. Unfortunately, many drivers think that reaching for their cellphones is harmless. If an irresponsible driver is not watching the road in front of his or her vehicle, though, your life may be in danger. Further, if drivers are not paying attention as they approach an intersection, they may endanger both motorists and pedestrians.
- Speeding
Posted speed limits may seem like a nuisance. Still, complying with them is often an effective way to avoid an accident. Naturally, if motorists ignore the speed limit, they may have insufficient time to slow down and stop before hitting the back of your car, truck or SUV. Additionally, if someone drives too fast for weather conditions, your car may be the only thing to stop a sliding vehicle.
- Tailgating
Following too closely is not just annoying, it also risks lives. While experts recommend allowing three seconds to transpire between when the car in front of you passes a stationary object and when your car does, many drivers ignore this rule. As you may suspect, if you stop suddenly in front of a tailgating driver, his or her car may end up in your backseat.
- Drunk or drowsy driving
Alcohol often slows reaction times. If the driver behind your vehicle has had too much to drink, he or she may crash into your car without even realizing a collision is imminent. Further, drowsy driving may end with the same consequences.