Tips to Avoid Rear-End Collisions

According to recent statistics, rear-end accidents account for?nearly 30%?of all collisions. These accidents can vary in severity from a scratched bumper to fatality. In nearly all cases of rear-end collisions, it’s the driver who is following too closely who is at fault except when the first vehicle makes a sudden and unexpected stop.?

The best way to avoid rear-end collisions is to leave some space between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you. It’s recommended to leave three to five seconds, (depending on speed and road conditions) so you have enough time to react.?

To give yourself a two-second space, follow these steps:?

• Pick a marker on the road ahead, such as a road sign or utility pole.??
• When the rear of the vehicle ahead passes the marker, count "one thousand and one, one thousand and two".?
• When the front of your vehicle reaches the marker, stop counting.?
• If you reach the marker before you count "one thousand and two," you are following too closely.??

Remember that the two-second rule gives a minimum following distance. It applies only to ideal driving conditions. You will need extra space in certain situations, such as inclement weather, when following motorcycles or large trucks, or when carrying a heavy load. [1]?

We can’t govern the actions of others on roadways, but we can control how we conduct ourselves and react to poor drivers.

What to do if you’re being tailgated:?

• Change lanes if possible and signal your intentions well in advance, but avoid pulling onto the shoulder of the road.?
• Don’t pump the brakes – the tailgater likely knows they are following too closely and may not have the time to react properly.?
• Don’t be too distracted by the driver behind you.?
• Keep your focus on the road ahead.?
• Don’t wave at the tailgater to pass you as your gesture may be misunderstood, or it may be dangerous?for them to pass with oncoming traffic.?
• Keep your cool. It’s better to assume the driver is just having a bad day, rather than being an all-around jerk.?
• If you feel unsafe and are concerned about road rage, take the first available right turn, and then again if they are still behind you. If the driver is still following you, drive directly to the closest police station.?

Be alert and drive safe Windsor - Essex!