One of the most dangerous types of crashes you can get into is a rear-end crash. It has the potential to push your vehicle into an intersection, into the vehicle in front of you or to pin your vehicle.
One of the main injuries people suffer from a rear-end collision is whiplash. However, whiplash is definitely not the worst potential injury. Others include burns from localized fires, crushing injuries from impact, lacerations and others.
What should you do to avoid a rear-end collision?
Obviously, you can’t control the behavior of the driver behind you. But if you want to lessen the potential risks of a rear-end collision, leave more space between yourself and vehicle in front of you. This can prevent crushing injuries and reduce the number of vehicles involved in the accident by allowing your vehicle some space to move if rear-ended.
You should also slow down well in advance of a stop sign or intersection. Additionally, leave space between your vehicle and the sign or intersection lights, so you won’t be pushed into the intersection if you are hit from behind.
Finally, routinely check your rearview mirror. Although you do need to pay attention to what’s in front of you, checking your mirrors could help you see if someone is approaching rapidly or acting unusual behind you. If so, you have the option of pulling over to the side of the road and allowing them to pass or of reporting their behavior to the police.
Every situation is different, so there is not going to be a one-size-fits-all way of reducing the risk of a collision. There’s also no guarantee the person behind you won’t cause you severe injury regardless of your safe driving. Still, it is always best to drive defensively and do what is in your control to reduce the likelihood of severe injury in a car crash.