Five Tips for Reducing Your Risk for a Rear-End Accident

Wednesday, July 13, 2016

Five Tips for Reducing Your Risk for a Rear-End Accident

Written by Malman Law, reviewed by Steve J. Malman.

No one plans to be in a car accident, but they happen daily here in Chicago. While you may be the safest driver out there, you are sharing the road with other drivers of all skill levels (and even distractions). Never assume that your safe driving practices will keep you from being involved in an accident. Instead, be more proactive in how you drive so that you can reduce the likelihood that you will be involved in one. Rear-end accidents are one of the most common types of collisions in the country. They can cause little property damage, but lead to serious, long-term injuries. To avoid the hassles of recuperating from a car accident, there are things you can do to lessen the likelihood that you will be rear-ended.

How Can You Reduce Your Risk?

Crash avoidance technology is slowly being released on newer models of vehicles, but not everyone in Chicago or the state of Illinois has this technology. And, you should never rely on other vehicles’ technology to keep you safe. Whether you are wanting to reduce the chances that you will rear-end someone or reduce the likelihood that you will be rear-ended, here are a few things to consider:

1. Always maintain a safe following distance. When you are following other vehicles, increase the amount of distance between you based on the speed at which you are traveling. Obviously, you will need a further distance when driving at higher speeds – because it will take longer for your vehicle to stop. Using the three-second rule is best during the day. You can do this by picking a fixed object ahead of you. Once the vehicle in front of you passes it, count to three. If you pass the object before you get to three, you are following too close and need to increase your distance. This will reduce the chances that you will rear-end that vehicle if it were to stop suddenly. Also, if you were to stop suddenly because of the vehicle in front of you, you want to make sure that you give yourself enough time to stop slowly – so the vehicle behind you does not strike your car.
2. Be a predictable driver. Most rear-end collisions happen because the vehicle tailing another does not know how the front vehicle will act. You can be more predictable to drivers following you just by slowing gradually at stop signs and lights, using turn signals, and not making sudden or unexpected lane changes.
3. Be aware of your own surroundings. You should always know what is around you while you are driving. Get into a habit of checking your mirrors, being aware of your vehicle’s blind spots, and always leaving enough space between you and other vehicles.
4. Avoid distractions while driving. It is easy to become distracted behind the wheel these days – from radios to GPS and even your phone pinging every few seconds. If you can, avoid as many distractions as possible so that you can be aware of the vehicles behind you, in front of you, and even off to the side.
5. Be aware of closely tailing vehicles. When you look in your rear view mirror, check out for any vehicles that are following too closely. If you can, signal and change lanes so that they can pass you. That way, you can reduce the likelihood that the tailing driver will accidentally strike your car and cause an accident.

Injured in a Rear-End Collision?

If you or a loved one was seriously injured in a rear-end collision, contact Malman Law today. We are here to assist you through this difficult time. We understand how frustrating it can be to be involved in an accident and with medical bills piling up and your wages decreasing, you need help now. Call us today to explore your options over a free consultation or fill out our online contact form with your legal questions.