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The Rear-End Collision: The Most Common Auto Accident in Phoenix

Auto accidents can come in many different types and forms. Some may be single car collisions, and others may involve multiple vehicles. The types of wrecks and the severity of them really depends on the impacts involved. Some auto accidents are considered to be minor fender benders, where all involved can walk away without injuries. However, there are many other, more serious accidents where one wrong, tragic turn can injure and endanger others involved. Among the many different types of auto accidents, rear-end car accidents are by far the most common type of crash that occurs in Phoenix and the rest of Arizona. The legal team at Warnock Mackinlay Law know all too well about how serious even minor accidents can be if anyone is injured. Our staff has put together this article to give Arizona drivers some helpful tips on how to avoid rear-end accidents, thus helping to keep our highways and roads safe.

What is Considered a Rear-End Auto Accident?

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Rear-end auto accidents happen when the front end of one car crashes into the rear end of another car. These rear-end collisions can happen on any kind of road and in all conditions. Some of these accidents happen in flowing traffic, merely due to another’s drivers distractions. However, it is typical that these accidents occur in areas that are prone to stop and go traffic. The areas right before stoplights and stop signs usually have a very high number of rear-end accidents. 

Immediately following a rear-end accident, local law enforcement or police will often be called to do a proper investigation and review all the details of the wreck. Usually, the fault is placed on the driver that strikes the other car, or the driver in the rear that collided with the car in front of them. Many times, distraction and speeding play a role in the accident, as these factors can inhibit the driver’s ability to respond properly to changing conditions. Accidents usually happen very quickly, so drivers dealing with distractions and high speeds can limit their reaction time.

What Can I Do to Prevent a Rear-End Accident in Arizona?

Rear-end collisions are so typical that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that rear-end accidents make up about 20-30 percent of all the accidents within the United States each and every year. Despite their large numbers and the relative ease with which they can be avoided, very few drivers are believed to be taking the correct steps to ensure that they are as safe as possible while behind the wheel. Experts believe that making a few minor driving adjustments to your everyday driving habits can make a great difference in the risks you face for a rear-end collision.

First, if you usually drive in areas with heavy traffic, make sure to give extra distance between your vehicle and other vehicles in front of you. Heavy traffic usually goes hand in hand with rear-end accidents in Phoenix. As residents, you understand how quickly the flow of traffic can change on our busy roads. Leaving extra space between your vehicle and the one immediately in front of you can help give you a little more reaction time when stopping abruptly. 

Next, it is important to remember to decrease the speed at which you drive, especially in areas with higher speed limits. It makes since that it will take your car longer to stop the faster it is traveling, and it is easier to stop your vehicle at slower speeds. New drivers are taught that the space between you and other vehicles should increase as your speed also increases. However, drivers that are rushing or are impatient behind the wheel may rush and close the gap of space between the vehicles and result in an accident. By slowing your speed modestly, you will increase the space surrounding your vehicle, increase your following distance, and give yourself a much greater chance to react appropriately to any changing conditions.  

Lastly, if you are coming up on a stop sign or a red stoplight and need to stop, try to leave some space between your vehicle and the one in front of you. This way, if the vehicle behind you is unable to stop in time, your car maybe hit but you will not encounter a secondary impact. In this instance, your vehicle will not collide with the vehicle in front of it. By being proactive like this, you are securing your position as the innocent victim of the accident, and not as someone who may bear partial responsibility for the damages suffered.

Remember that if you are affected by the negligent actions of another driver and you are injured, you may be eligible for financial compensation for the damages suffered. Gaining proper legal counsel from a skilled personal injury and auto accident attorney can help you to determine whether proceeding with a claim is the most appropriate choice for your specific situation. A competent auto accident attorney will also be able to determine who is liable for your injuries. Even when dealing with minor auto accidents, it is never a bad idea to get the opinion and advice of a legitimate auto attorney. An established auto attorney will understand and know how to deal with insurance companies as well.

Consult with an Arizona Car Accident Attorney to Discuss Your Case

At Warnock MacKinlay Law, our professional lawyers and staff are here to help you make the best decisions regarding your auto accident claim. Our firm always takes a personalized approach to each and every one of our clients and their case. Call our office today for a free consultation about your recent auto accident. Our staff is also available if you have any questions regarding your recent accident. We have years of experience helping other Arizona motorists, and we stay dedicated to helping keep our roads safe.

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