Star Telegram reported recently on the dangers of a Fort Worth intersection. When traveling west on the Southwest Boulevard access road and then taking the right-hand curve into Bryant Irvin Road, drivers will suddenly come upon a stop sign at the curve of the road. After having just gone through a green light, the drivers have to suddenly slam on the brakes or face the risk of a $220 ticket. Unfortunately, many drivers do end up hitting the brakes, which can cause rear end accidents. Some reports indicate a crash occurs once a day on average.
At dangerous intersections like this one, it is hard for drivers to avoid rear-end accidents. Elsewhere on the road, however, the decisions made by drivers are usually to blame for rear-end collisions. If drivers follow best practices for safety and stop engaging in certain high-risk driving behaviors, a significant number of rear-end accidents could be prevented.
How to Prevent Rear-End Accidents
Drivers can prevent rear-end accidents in a number of different ways including:
- Leaving plenty of space between your car and the car directly in front of yours. It should take approximately four seconds for you to pass by a fixed object on the road after the driver in the lead car has passed it. This allows you time to stop your vehicle or slow it down in response to what the front driver is doing.
- Driving at a safe speed. You don't want to drive faster than is reasonable based on the current conditions on the road or faster than posted limits. Excessive speed significantly increases the amount of time it takes for your car to stop, which increases the chances of a rear-end accident.
- Avoiding cutting off other motorists. Don't suddenly change lanes or pull out in front of other cars, as the drivers may not have time to stop once you have gotten into their path.
- Avoiding sudden stops. Look up ahead of you to identify obstacles early. Be sure to try to avoid coming to a sudden stop, as the driver behind you may not be able to slam on his brakes fast enough to avoid hitting you.
- Avoiding distractions and staying alert. You should not use your phone, drive while drowsy, or drive while drunk, as all of these things can make it impossible for you to pay attention to what the driver in front of your car is doing.
If you are driving and involved in a rear-end collision, it is important to understand what your rights are. You may be able to make a damage claim and recover compensation for your losses if you can show the other driver was to blame. The driver in the rear is usually presumed negligent in a rear-end crash, which can make it easier for victims in the lead vehicle to make their case and get compensation for crash damages.
If you or a loved one has been injured contact Coby L. Wooten, Attorney at Law, P.C. at 800-994-1966 or visit https://www.cobywootenlaw.com. Serving Dallas, Arlington, Fort Worth, TX and surrounding areas.