Common Causes of Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end collisions are one of the most common types of collisions. Unfortunately, distracted driving and other avoidable practices are oftentimes the reason for many rear-end collisions. To reduce your chances of experiencing a rear-end collision, read below for a list of bad driving habits to avoid.

Using a Cell Phone or Navigation System

When a driver takes his or her focus off of the road in order to use a cell phone or configure the navigation system, the likelihood of a rear-end collision greatly increases. In order to reduce the chances of getting into a collision, make sure that you stay focused on the road and only use your electronic devices if it doesn’t require you to take your attention away from driving.

Watching Roadside Distractions

On an average trip, drivers are confronted with numerous distractions ranging from road construction to billboards. Many people don’t even think twice, they just look out the window and stop paying attention to the road ahead for a few seconds. Unfortunately, a few seconds is all it takes to get into a collision with the car in front of you.

Abrupt Braking Combined with Tailgating

Following the vehicle ahead too closely is a surefire way to get into a rear-end collision. When the vehicle ahead applies the brakes, the driver of the tailgating vehicle will have only a fraction of a second to apply the brakes before a rear-end collision occurs. To avoid rear-end collisions, stick to the three-second rule. Allow three seconds between you and the vehicle in front of you to give yourself enough time to safely react.

Sometimes rear-end collisions are unavoidable. If you have been in a collision and you need a team of qualified mechanics with collision repair experience, come to Michael J’s Body Shop. Our collision repair shop in San Jose has over 20 years of experience serving San Jose. Call us at 408-279-2070 for more information, and visit our website to see our locations.