Rear-end car accidents are an all-too-common occurrence on the roadways. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), rear-end collisions accounted for approximately 41.7 percent of all motor vehicle accidents in 2021. These types of accidents can result in serious injuries, trauma, and, in some cases, fatalities. While no one sets out to cause an accident, some common causes of rear-end car accidents must be identified so that drivers can take preventative measures to avoid them.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driver behavior is one of the primary causes of rear-end car accidents. According to statistics from the NHTSA, at least 3,522 people died in motor vehicle accidents caused by distracted driving in 2021. Drivers are more likely to cause a rear-end accident when engaging in:
- Texting
- Talking on the phone
- Consuming food or drinks
- Adjusting the radio
- Other similar distractions while driving
When a driver is engrossed in activities other than driving, they are likely to miss signals or ignore the vehicle in front of them.
Did You Know: At 55 mph, taking your eyes off the road for even 5 seconds is the equivalent of driving the length of a football field blindfolded.
Tailgating
Tailgating, or following too closely, is another leading cause of rear-end car accidents. When drivers do not leave enough space between their vehicles and the ones in front of them, they may not have enough time to stop if the vehicle in front of them suddenly slows down or stops. Tailgating in bad weather conditions and high-traffic areas is especially dangerous.
A good rule of thumb is to leave an entire car length between you and the vehicle ahead for every 10 mph you are traveling.
Speeding
Speeding is another primary cause of rear-end car accidents. When a driver travels over the posted speed limit, they are more likely to collide with the car in front of them. Speeding drivers are unable to stop their vehicles quickly, especially when driving over long distances. Accidents involving speeding drivers not only increase the severity of the collision but also lead to fatalities and severe injuries. The NHTSA reported that 11,258 lives were lost in 2020 due to speeding-related car accidents.
Failure to Yield
Negligence and failure to yield the right of way while merging or turning are other common causes of rear-end car accidents. When a driver fails to signal or correctly merge onto a highway, the oncoming traffic may collide with the back of their vehicle. Motorists must always follow traffic signals, signs, and markings while driving.
Vehicle Malfunction
Vehicle malfunction due to brake failure, worn-out tires, or other technical issues can cause rear-end car accidents. When a driver experiences difficulties with their vehicle, they are not in control of their car, which leads to accidents. People who fail to maintain their car are also more prone to safety issues that cause accidents.
Poor Road Conditions
Poor road conditions such as icy roads, inclement weather, potholes, or infrastructure issues contribute to rear-end car accidents. When the roads are slippery, it can take longer for vehicles to stop. Drivers must adjust their speed and increase their stopping distance when driving on roads with poor conditions.
Your Options After a Rear-End Car Accident in Connecticut
If you are involved in a rear-end car accident in Connecticut due to any of these factors or another reason, contact RisCassi & Davis, P.C. for legal guidance. We specialize in personal injury cases and will do everything possible so you can receive compensation for your injuries.
Take action now — contact RisCassi & Davis, P.C. online or by phone at (860) 245-2412 to get started.