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January 21, 2025 by Greg Baumgartner
Rear-end collisions happen daily on Texas interstate highways. Why are rear-end collisions so common on Texas highways? Rear-end crashes are due to high speeds, driver distractions, and sudden changes in traffic flow. Weather conditions and vehicle maintenance issues may play a part.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, rear-end collisions account for approximately 23% of all motor vehicle accidents.
Rear-end collisions on highways are often the result of a combination of factors, including driver error. High speeds diminish the margin for error. Making it more difficult to stop in time.
Driver inattentiveness, often due to distractions, is another significant factor in these accidents.
One of the most common causes of rear-end collisions is following too closely, also known as tailgating. When drivers do not maintain a safe following distance, stopping in time to avoid a collision is harder. Sudden traffic congestion and abrupt braking can catch drivers off guard, leading to accidents.
Safe following distances are vital in preventing rear-end accidents due to sudden stops in traffic. Drivers should always ensure enough space between their vehicle and the one ahead for adequate reaction time.
Inclement weather has a significant role in some car accidents. Reduced visibility and traction on road surfaces can make it more difficult for drivers to stop quickly. Rain or driving in snow or ice requires caution.
Distracted driving is a major contributor to rear-end collisions. Distractions often cause inattentiveness, like a phone, eating, adjusting controls, or interacting with passengers. According to the Texas DOT, one in 6 crashes in Texas involved distracted driving. In 2023, 403 people died in accidents involving distracted driving. Texas had over 94,000 distracted driving accidents last year, and over 10,000 of those crashes occurred in Harris County.
Avoiding distractions while driving is crucial to maintaining focus and safe driving. Some common distractions are:
Pumping your brake lights can also help alert distracted drivers.
Higher speeds increase the severity of crashes and contribute to rear-end collisions. Following speed limits and avoiding abrupt lane changes helps maintain a steady traffic flow.
Driver fatigue is a significant factor in rear-end collisions. Tired drivers have failures in judgment and inattention. Long trips can involve monotonous driving conditions, which can heighten fatigue risk. Awareness of driver fatigue and its risks during long trips is crucial for preventing accidents.
Fatigue can impair a driver’s performance, like driving after drinking, making it a critical monitoring factor. Recognizing the signs of driver fatigue and taking preventive measures are crucial.
Common indicators of driver fatigue include:
• Yawning
• Heavy eyelids
• Difficulty concentrating on the road
• Slower reaction times
• Daydreaming
These signs can help you recognize when to take a break while driving.
Proper vehicle upkeep reduces the likelihood of rear-end collisions. Regular vehicle upkeep is essential to prevent accidents. Critical components like brakes, tires, and lights must function properly.
Routine vehicle inspections can prevent potential failures that could lead to accidents.
Brake failures are a significant factor in rear-end collisions, so checking your brakes is crucial. Worn-out brake pads or fluid leaks can impair a driver’s ability to stop.
Routine vehicle inspections are vital for detecting potential mechanical problems early. Which helps prevent accidents caused by unaddressed issues.
In many rear-end collisions, the trailing driver is often deemed responsible for damages incurred. However, exceptions include situations where the leading driver contributed to the accident. Documenting the positions of vehicles involved in the accident is crucial for legal purposes.
Obtaining a copy of the accident report is essential for supporting insurance claims. Taking photographs of the accident scene and gathering witness contact information can be helpful. Evidence is needed for most insurance claims. Filing an official police report is especially crucial for significant damages or injuries.
The second driver is typically responsible for rear-end collisions. The rear-ended driver can sometimes be partly at fault in a rear-end collision if the front driver makes an unsafe lane change.
Liability can be complicated. Consulting a car accident lawyer after a rear-end collision is advisable.
Calling the police to report the accident is critical. Filing an insurance claim after a rear-end collision often requires a police report supporting the claim.
Avoid fighting with insurance companies alone.
Consulting a car accident lawyer can help you with the claims process. Get an attorney and ensure you receive maximum compensation. Proper documentation and timely reporting are vital for a successful insurance claim.
After a rear-end collision, immediate steps must be taken. Immediate medical attention for injuries is vital. Rear-end collisions can cause serious harm, and documenting your injury is important.
Consulting with a proven car accident lawyer is helpful if injured in a rear-end collision.
Ensure you check for injuries and seek medical attention if necessary. It’s also important to move your vehicle out of traffic. Avoid further accidents and ensure the safety of all involved parties.
These steps can prevent additional collisions and manage the accident scene.
Gather contact and insurance details from all parties involved in the accident. Drivers should exchange:
Calling the police to the scene is crucial for supporting insurance claims.
Collecting this information can aid a smooth claims process. And provide the necessary evidence for legal proceedings.
Rear-end collisions on interstate highways in Texas are a common occurrence with serious fallout.
The key to preventing rear-end collisions lies in awareness and proactive measures. Implementing the strategies discussed can create safer roads for everyone. Let’s commit to being more attentive, responsible drivers and making our highways safer for all users.
If you have been hurt in a car accident in Houston, TX, contact Baumgartner Law Firm for a free consultation.
6711 Cypress Creek Pkwy
Houston, TX, 77069
Since founding the Baumgartner Law Firm in 1985, Greg Baumgartner has established himself as a leading personal injury attorney in Houston, Texas, with a focus on representing severely injured accident victims and families who have suffered the loss of a loved one. His commitment to excellence in legal advocacy has earned him recognition from prestigious organizations, including Super Lawyers and the Top 100 Trial Lawyers and others. With decades of experience, Greg is consistently peer-reviewed and holds a preeminent rating, reflecting his dedication to achieving justice for his clients.
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