How To Avoid A Rear-End Collision

One of the most common types of New Haven auto accidents that occur is a rear-end collision. This is when a driver is traveling along the road and is struck from behind by another vehicle. There are a variety of reasons why these types of accidents might happen and they can be quite jarring when they do happen so it is important that you take the time to understand what you can do to avoid this type of accident as you are driving throughout the city.

It is important to note that assigning blame for these types of accidents is not always as cut and dry as blaming the driver who came up from behind. While that is a starting point for figuring out the fault it is not always where the evidence leads so it is important that all drivers are aware of the hazards that can cause rear-end collisions and how to avoid them.

Some of the types of behaviors for drivers to avoid so as to not get into a rear-end collision include those that are similar to avoiding all types of accidents. Drivers should not drive while distracted, that is looking at their phones, changing the station on the radio, eating or engaging in any other distracted driving behaviors. This is the first and most important thing you can do to help avoid a rear-end collision. Studies have shown that looking away from the road in front of you for just a split second can leave you to miss the equivalent of 100-yards of driving time. That’s one full football field that passes you by when you look away for a split second. You can imagine how dangerous this might be.

Another common behavior that can lead to a rear-end collision is speeding. You might think that when you’re speeding it is less likely that you will be in heavy traffic and therefore a rear-end collision is not as common. The truth is that if you are speeding under any traffic conditions you are putting yourself at a greater risk of being involved in an accident of any kind, including a rear-end collision. Speeding not only increases your chances of becoming involved in an accident, but it also increases your chances of being involved in a serious accident and if you strike someone from behind while you’re speeding, the property damage and injuries can be quite severe.

Following distance is another key reason why rear-end collisions happen. This is especially true during bad weather when you should increase the distance you are leaving between you and the cars in front of you. It is important that you maintain a safe distance between you and the cars in front of you at all times and in all conditions. In the event that the person in front of you stops short you will want to have enough space between you and the car in front of you to come to a complete stop smoothly and without any consternation that you might hit the vehicle. A general rule of thumb for following distance is three car lengths between you and the other drivers you are sharing the road with.

Last but not least, a significant factor in rear-end collisions is drowsy driving. If you didn’t get good sleep the night before or you’re tired from a long day at work you may be driving while drowsy and this can impact your reaction times and make it difficult to concentrate. If you are driving while drowsy you may be putting yourself, your passengers and the people you are sharing the road with at risk of getting into an accident. Remember, just a brief close of your eyes can reduce or even eliminate your reaction times and can cause an accident.

While rear-end collisions make up just under 25% of all collisions nationwide, they can be quite serious and there are steps you can take to help avoid them. If you follow some of the guidance above you will be putting yourself in a position to stay safe and free from a New Haven auto accident. While accidents are not completely unavoidable, if you’re taking steps to keep yourself safe you will greatly reduce your chances of being involved in one.

If you were to experience an injury or property damage as the result of an accident you may wish to speak with an experienced attorney who has spent time working on situations like yours. Contact our office and one of our attorneys will review your situation and work with you to protect your long-term interests.