As a driver, you may have concerns about being involved in a rear-end collision. Fortunately, there are personal safety tips you can follow to avoid trouble.
Here are three of the best things you can do to avoid a rear-end collision:
- Leave more space: It doesn’t matter if you’re on the highway driving 70 miles per hour or in stop and go city traffic, leave a safe following distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you.
- Keep an eye on your surroundings: This gives you the opportunity to pinpoint dangerous situations and drivers, such as someone who is texting or talking on the phone.
- Be predictable at all times: The more signals you can provide other drivers the better off you’ll be. For example, always use your turn signals, as this gives the person behind you time to slow down. Also, slow down gradually as you reach a stop sign or traffic signal.
What to do after a rear-end accident
If a vehicle strikes you from behind, such as when you’re sitting at a red light, take a moment to collect yourself.
In the event of a serious injury, such as whiplash, stay where you are and immediately call 911. Attempting to move when you have a back or neck injury can result in additional bodily harm.
When someone causes a rear-end collision, there’s not much guesswork as to who was at fault (it’s the person who struck you from behind). For this reason, you should collect as much evidence as possible and then file an insurance claim. As you take these steps, do so with the idea of protecting your legal rights and receiving compensation for your injuries.