With so many accidents caused by rear-end crashes, it’s important to know how these accidents occur.
Indiana, Kentucky and Illinois car accidents can happen in any number of ways, but here, as in the rest of the country, rear-end collisions are easily the most common. Each year, more than 2.5 million rear-end accidents happen in the United States, according to the National Safety Council. The NSC also reports that about 20 percent of drivers hit from behind experience whiplash, which can be a long-lasting and debilitating injury.
With so many accidents caused by rear-end crashes, it’s important to know how these accidents occur. The most common reasons for rear-end crashes include:
Distracted Drivers.
Perhaps more so than any other category, distracted driving is responsible for a large number of rear-end accidents. Any activity that takes a driver’s eyes of the road – even for a few seconds – can lead to an accident. When motorists listen to music, text, use a cell phone, apply makeup, eat, or even glance in their backseat while driving, they are not fully engaged in operating their vehicle.
Following Too Closely.
You know what tailgating is and you have likely driven with someone following you way too closely for comfort. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, tailgating is responsible for one-third of all rear-end collisions. Many reasons lead drivers to follow too closely, including excessive speed, reckless driving, poor vision, and road rage.
Bad Weather.
Indiana gets some pretty nasty weather throughout the course of the year. Heavy rain, ice, and snow can make it difficult for drivers to see cars in front of them.
Drunk Drivers.
When drivers abuse substances and then get behind the wheel, accidents happen with disturbing frequency. Although most people associate impaired driving with alcohol, any substance that compromises a driver’s ability to operate his or her vehicle in a safe manner can lead to an accident. These substances include both illegal and prescription drugs as well as over-the-counter medication.
Don’t face this alone.
NEIL CHAPMAN, LAWYER