Rear-end crashes are relatively common. They occur at intersections and on busy streets. People often rush to judgment after rear-end collisions, but the reality is that either driver involved in the wreck might actually be at fault.
There are multiple factors that contribute to rear-end collision risk. Motorists who understand the most common causes of rear-end collisions are in a better position to prove that they were not at fault and to hold another driver accountable for making unsafe choices.
What are the leading causes of rear-end collisions?
1. Distracted driving
Many people approaching intersections think it is the perfect opportunity to check a text message. They may fail to notice if the vehicle in front of them stops suddenly.
Distracted drivers interacting with mobile devices take their eyes off of traffic and focus their attention on their devices instead. They may then cause a rear-end collision because they aren’t paying attention.
2. Tailgating
Generally speaking, drivers need to maintain a reasonable following distance between their vehicles. With dry roads and well-maintained brakes, drivers should allow for at least three seconds of travel time between vehicles.
When there are other factors in play, such as wet roads, drivers may need to substantially increase their following distance. Many drivers do not keep adequate space between vehicles when they drive. Others may intentionally tailgate. They get very close to the rear end of the vehicle in front of them, which may result in them causing a rear-end crash.
3. Aggressive maneuvers
The driver in the front vehicle might be at fault if they become too aggressive in traffic. Sometimes, drivers merge into spaces that are not large enough to accommodate their vehicles safely. Other times, they turn out into traffic without accelerating quickly enough.
In those circumstances, the driver behind them may not be able to come to a stop or slow down to prevent a crash. In such scenarios, the driver in the front vehicle may actually be the party to blame for the rear-end crash.
Establishing who was at fault for a motor vehicle collision is the first step toward seeking compensation. Either driver might potentially be to blame for a rear-end crash depending on the circumstances.
