Every driver gets involved in a rear-end collision at some time or the other. You can avoid these accidents of rear-end of vehicles if you follow these tips for driving safely.
Keep Your Distance
It does not matter where you are driving, on a highway, a work zone, or a rural road, the first step to take to avoid rear-end collisions, is to maintain a safe distance from the car or vehicle that is in front of you. Once you do this, then you have enough time to react and use your brakes safely.
In normal road driving conditions, use the “3-second rule”:
Pick any stationary object that is near the road, like an overpass, a sign or tree.
After the rear end of the vehicle you are behind, passes that object, count from one thousand one to one thousand three. If the object you have picked out is passed before you have finished your count, it means that you are too close to the vehicle in front.
When the driving situations you are in are more dangerous, adjust the distance of following to 4 seconds. When will this be necessary?
Slippery roads. Slick pavements on which you can slip are caused by fallen leaves, snow, ice or rain.
Poor visibility. The sun’s glare, flying dust or fog in addition to rain or snow can make it troublesome to see.
If you are behind a large vehicle. When you are behind a big semi that has an oversized load, you need to keep still further back, so that you are not in its blind spot, and you have more room to see.
Behind a motorcycle. Motorcycles can stop much faster than you, so give them the extra room, when you are behind them.
Vehicles that have frequent stops. Postal vehicles, garbage trucks, and school buses have frequent stops and may also stop at railroad crossings. So best follow the 4-second rule when you are behind them.
Be Ready For the Unexpected
Always be alert to unexpected hazards like large potholes, stalled cars, or debris, so that you have the time to avoid them without the need to slam on the brakes, or having to make an abrupt turn into another lane.
Never be in another driver’s blind spot, as they may not be able to see you when they are switching lanes.
Check mirrors frequently when you are driving, especially before you turn, change or merge lanes.
Your Driving Must Be Predictable
Never leave drivers following you from having to guess whether you are changing lanes, stopping or turning.
Slow down gradually, and never slam on the brakes.
Make sure that your headlights and brake lights are always functional.
Your turn signal must be activated much before you are intending to turn so that the driver behind you is alerted.
Never squeeze in front of other drivers when you change lanes, but give them sufficient notice by signaling.
Posted speed limits must be strictly followed, especially in work and school zones.
Never be distracted while driving, like texting.
Drugs and alcohol can slow down your time of reaction, so never drive after you are under their influence.
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