Stop Rear-End Accidents in Chicago With These Tips
A rear-end collision is one of the most common kinds of crashes in Chicago and surrounding areas including Evanston, Wilmette and Highland Park. According to a Penn State University report, the typical car in the U.S. will be involved in 0.18 rear end crashes during the operational life of the vehicle.
A rear-end accident lawyer knows there are things you can do try to prevent a rear-end accident from occurring. It is every driver’s responsibility to try to make smart choices to stop these accidents.
How to Prevent a Rear-End Collision
Wheels.ca has some tips that motorists should follow to try to prevent a rear-end accident.
One of the most important things drivers should do is ensure they are aware of what is going on around them.
Driving while distracted is the number one cause of rear-end accidents according to a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The number two cause of these types of collisions is tailgating. Together, these two factors account for a full 93 percent of all rear-end accidents on U.S. roads.
Drivers should keep focused on the roads and look well in front of them so they can be prepared to gradually stop when coming to a signal, stop light, or other vehicle. Slamming on the brakes increases the likelihood of a rear-end accident. You could be hit by the driver from behind if you slam on the brakes and don’t leave him time to respond.
Drivers should also know what is going on behind them. If the driver who is behind your vehicle is tailgating you, try to move over into another lane or get out of the way to let them pass so they don’t hit your car. You should also check the mirrors every five to eight seconds, or before you approach an area where you need to stop. If you see the other driver isn’t paying attention, you can respond accordingly.
You need to leave yourself space to respond if a driver is about to hit you. You should try to leave around two car lengths between your vehicle and the one in front of you when you come to a stop. This way, if you are about to get hit, you can move out of the way. You can also look around to see if the road shoulder or an empty lane will provide you with a place to go if a driver is approaching from behind that is not stopping. If a car does strike your vehicle from the back, steer into the direction where you want to go and take your foot off the brake rather than slamming the brake down harder like it is your natural inclination to do.
By following these tips, hopefully you can avoid becoming involved in a rear-end crash.
Contact Ronaldson & Kuchler Law Offices in Chicago. Call 800-210-0136 today to schedule a free case evaluation. Serving Chicago and surrounding areas including Evanston, Wilmette and Highland Park.
