Rear-end collisions are one of the most common types of car accidents. While some rear-end accidents result in minimal vehicle damages and injuries, some lead to serious injuries and fatalities. Common injuries during rear-end collisions include whiplash, traumatic brain injuries, and spine injuries. Here, a top Morgantown, WV car accident lawyer offers some helpful tips on how to avoid rear-end collisions.
Don’t Tailgate
When you are in a hurry to get somewhere and the vehicle in front of you is driving slow, it can be tempting to tailgate. However, following too closely behind the car in front of you is risky. If the car in front of you brakes suddenly, you can run straight into it. Try to always leave at least two car lengths between you and the vehicle in front of you.
Maintain Your Brakes
If the brakes on your vehicle are worn out, they can prevent you from making stops in time to avoid an accident. That’s why proper brake maintenance is so important. If your brakes are making squealing or grinding noises or become harder to press down, you should have them checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible.
Drive More Slowly in Snowy and Icy Conditions
Snow and ice can impede your vision and make the roads extra slippery. In this type of weather, it’s important to slow down your speed. Otherwise, you could slip all over the road and run into the car in front of you.
Avoid Using Your Smartphone
Smartphones are more popular than ever now, which has contributed to many rear-end collisions. If you are busy looking at your phone while you are behind the wheel, you might not see when another vehicle has stopped, slowed down or merged into your lane, which can result in a rear end accident. When you are behind the wheel, put your smartphone out of arm’s reach so that you are not tempted to use it.
Check Your Mirrors Often
As you slow down your car or come to a stop, remember to check your mirrors. Observe the behavior of the drivers behind and around you. Do they seem distracted or like they are driving carelessly? If so, you should try to move out of the way as quickly as you can.
Plan Lane Changes in Advance
Unless it’s an absolute emergency, you should never suddenly change lanes. It is important to use your turn signals and give other drivers plenty of time to see your signals before you make your move. If there isn’t enough room to make a lane change, it’s better for you to wait until there is more room.
What Should You Do If You Were Rear-Ended?
Even if you are the safest driver in the world, that won’t prevent other drivers from being careless. If another driver rear-ended your vehicle in West Virginia, you should speak to a top Morgantown, WV car accident attorney, who clients recommend. We can review your case for free and make you aware of your legal options. Give us a call to find out how we can help you pursue a claim for compensation for your injuries – (304) 381-2166.
