A rear-end collision can happen when you least expect it. Although countless factors can cause these wrecks, most of them involve human errors.
According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, distracted driving is the leading cause of rear-end collisions. Fortunately, you may be able to avoid these crashes by:
- Keeping your vision on the road ahead;
- Avoiding distractions;
- Lengthening your following distance;
- And braking gradually.
If you were rear-ended in Georgia, contact the Crosson Law Group, LLC. Ken Crosson is a car wreck attorney in Marietta who will evaluate your accident, gather evidence, structure your claim and handle settlement negotiations on your behalf.
Mr. Crosson is a member of the Cobb County Bar Association, the State Bar of Georgia and the State Bar of Virginia. Call 678-909-0770 to schedule a free initial consultation. You can also learn more about accident claims in Georgia by visiting the USAttorneys website.
Here are four tips to help you avoid rear-end crashes:
- Keep Your Vision on the Road Ahead
If a car stops suddenly in front of you, then you must have enough time to brake safely. As a rule of thumb, keep your vision 15 seconds ahead of you when travelling on a highway. This will help you notice the leading car braking, which will give you more time to stop.
- Avoid Distractions
The most dangerous distractions are those that occupy your visual, mental and physical abilities at the same time. Texting is a prime example. Other distractions that cause rear-end crashes include:
- Rowdy passengers;
- Eating and drinking;
- Texting and other cell phone use;
- Adjusting audio and climate controls;
- And reaching for items across the vehicle.
Before starting your car, turn your cell phone off or put it in the glove box. If you are a new driver, do not carry passengers. Never eat or drink behind the wheel, and ask a passenger to adjust audio and climate controls for you.
- Lengthen Your Following Distance
The longer your following distance, the more time you will have to stop if the leading vehicle brakes suddenly. This will reduce your risk of a rear-end accident.
Try to maintain at least three seconds of distance between your vehicle and the leading car. You should double this distance to six seconds in rain, snow, fog and other low-visibility conditions.
- Brake Gradually
You never know when the driver behind you is distracted. As such, you should always brake gradually. Slow down well before you reach an intersection or stop sign.
Were You Rear-Ended in Marietta, Georgia?
If you were injured by a distracted, impaired or otherwise reckless driver in Georgia, contact the Crosson Law Group, LLC. Ken Crosson is a Marietta car wreck attorney who will give your case the individual attention that it deserves.
As the victim of another driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income and noneconomic damages. Call 678-909-0770 to schedule a free initial consultation.