Rear-End Collisions

 

What to do About Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end accidents are serious incidents that can cause serious injuries. According to a report from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, rear-end crashes are the most frequently occurring type of collision. Here, at Bob Moore Collision Center, serving Oklahoma City, Norman, Edmond, and surrounding areas, we understand the stressfulness of these situations. Come let our professional technicians get you back on the road.

What is a Rear-End Collision?

About 29 percent of all car crashes are rear-end collisions. These crashes result in a substantial number of injuries and fatalities each year. A rear-end accident occurs when a driver hits the vehicle directly in front of them from behind. They often occur at a red light, a stop sign, or in congested traffic. A majority of rear-end collisions happen at low speeds. But they can occur at high speeds on highways or other high-speed roads. Rear-end accidents usually involve two cars, however, they can cause a chain reaction that involves other vehicles.

How to Handle Rear-Ending Someone

While we all like to consider ourselves to be safe drivers, accidents do occur. If you find yourself in the situation of having rear-ended someone, there are a few general steps you can take. Unquestionably, the first and most important thing to do is to check to see if anyone was injured in the accident. If not, take a deep breath and try to keep things in perspective. Damaged property can be fixed, but people can't get unhurt. Next, you should exchange information with the other driver, or drivers. The more information you can get the better. At a minimum, you should make sure to obtain their full name, address, phone number, and the name of their insurance provider. You also want to know the make and model of their vehicle, the state in which it's registered, their license plate number, and their insurance policy number. If you have a smartphone or camera with you, it's also a good idea to take a picture of their driver's license.

What to do When You're Rear-Ended

Rear-ended collisions happen in any number of ways, in any number of places. You could be stopped at a stop sign, red light, or crosswalk when the driver behind you doesn't stop or they take their foot off the brake a little too soon. Take a deep breath and try not to panic. Check for injuries and seek medical attention if anyone is injured. Next, call the police and report the accident. Exchange information with the other parties involved. Contact your insurance company. While the other driver's insurance company will likely pay for the damages that result from a rear-end collision, your coverage could apply, too. If the at-fault driver does not have liability insurance or cannot be identified, your uninsured motorist auto coverage could help pay for medical and related expenses you incur.

Tips for Avoiding a Rear-End Collision

Leave at least two car lengths of space between you and the car in front of you. Follow at a safe distance and increase this distance if road conditions are slippery. Avoid all forms of distracted driving, including eating, talking, or texting on your phone. Look for slowing traffic beyond the car in front of you. Slow to a stop instead of slamming on the brakes. And last, but not least, check your brake lights and turn signals often to make sure they're working!

Our certified technicians at Bob Moore Collision Center are ready to assist you in the unfortunate event of an accident. Call us, or go online to learn more about our services.