Seven reasons rear-end collisions tend to happen

On Behalf of | Jun 5, 2019 | Motor Vehicle Accidents

With residents and tourists filling roadways around Buffalo, you have some risk of an automobile collision every time you climb behind the wheel. While a rear-end collision may seem to be less severe than a head-on crash, one could leave you with serious injuries. In fact, after a rear-end collision, you may never be the same again.

If you sustain an injury in a rear-end crash, you must work diligently to recover from your injuries. You may also have to take certain steps to receive compensation for your damages. Of course, avoiding a rear-end wreck altogether is ideal. Here are seven reasons rear-end collisions tend to occur. 

  1. Following too closely 

Tailgating is not only annoying, but it can also be extremely dangerous. If other motorists do not allow sufficient space to maintain control over their vehicles, your life and health may be in jeopardy. 

  1. Driving under the influence 

Virtually everyone realizes that drunk driving is a bad idea. Alcohol tends to slow reaction times and impair judgment. If the driver behind you has had too much to drink, he or she may run into the back of your vehicle. 

  1. Looking at a smartphone 

Modern electronic devices make life simpler. They can also turn your everyday commute into a nightmare. Put simply, distracted driving is a problem in the Empire State. In fact, during a recent five-year period, officers in New York increased the number of citations for distracted driving by 918%. 

  1. Failing to account for weather 

Buffalo has some extreme weather. As you know, stopping on snow, ice and wet pavement can be challenging. If drivers do not maintain a safe distance, the weather can contribute to rear-end collisions. 

  1. Ignoring road conditions 

Road construction seems to be everywhere these days. When construction crews change traffic patterns, drivers must pay attention to avoid a collision. Damaged roadways, missing signs and malfunctioning traffic lights may also contribute to rear-end crashes.

  1. Drifting off to sleep 

Drowsy driving can be as dangerous as intoxicated and distracted driving. Sleepiness may cause a driver’s reflexes to slow. Further, if commercial truck drivers skip necessary rest breaks, they may inadvertently cause a rear-end wreck. 

  1. Exceeding posted speed limits 

Finally, exceeding the speed limit may be a recipe for disaster. When vehicles move too quickly for drivers to stop, rear-end collisions occur. Even worse, if drivers increase their speeds to try to make it through a yellow light, they may be unable to avoid a rear-end collision.

 Rear-end collisions on Buffalo’s roadways are probably more common than you think. By understanding why these types of wrecks usually happen, you can develop a plan for staying safe on the road.

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