Tailgating – a term that is often used to describe drivers who are following too closely – is one of the leading causes of auto accidents in the U.S. More than one-third of all car crashes are the result of tailgating, with 75% of them occurring on highways and tollways.
Learning how to avoid tailgating and maneuver safely is a defensive driving technique that all drivers should learn and adhere to, yet often fail to do so. Speak to a Chicago car accident attorney to learn more!
Failure to drive at a speed that allows you to stop safely behind the car in front of you is the primary cause of tailgating accidents. The National Safety Council recommends using the three-second rule to keep enough space between you and the car you’re following. With the three-second rule, you’re always at least three seconds behind the car in front of you. When the vehicle in front of you passes a stationary object on the side of the road, begin counting “One-Thousand One, One-Thousand Two, One-Thousand Three”…Then, you should pass that same object.
Another common cause of tailgating accidents is people who are driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Intoxication can alter a person’s ability to think rationally and impair their vision and depth perception. Those who engage in distracted driving, such as texting, talking or changing radio stations are also prone to a tailgating accident.
Common injuries from tailgating accidents include:
Neck injuries: Whiplash is the sudden impact that can cause the head and neck to jerk violently, resulting in neck pain, stiffness and reduced range of motion.
Head Injuries.:If the impact is strong enough, the driver or passengers may hit their heads against the steering wheel, dashboard, or windows, leading to concussions, lacerations, or even traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
Facial Injuries: Airbag deployment or impact with the steering wheel, dashboard, or windows can cause facial injuries, including broken bones, cuts, and bruises.
Back Injuries: The force of a rear-end collision can compress the spine, leading to herniated discs, sprains, or strains in the lower back, causing chronic pain and mobility issues.
If you are hurt in a tailgating accident, you may have an opportunity to claim restitution for those injuries. Having an experienced Chicago personal injury lawyer at your side ensures that your case is handled professionally, your rights are protected, and that you have the best chance of receiving the compensation you deserve.
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