Many different types of crashes occur on New York roads. Rear-end crashes are among the most common. They can happen in just a few seconds and can range from deadly collisions to simple fender-benders that only produce property damage.
The party that caused the crash is typically liable for the costs generated by the collision. Many rear-end collisions in New York occur due to one of the three common causes briefly explained below.
1. Distracted driving
Frequently, drivers cause rear-end crashes because they don’t notice the vehicle in front of them slowing down or stopping. They overlook this important change because they are more focused on their phones or their coffee cup than the road ahead.
2. Tailgating
Frequently, rear-end crashes occur specifically because a driver gets too close to the vehicle in front of them. Most safety experts recommend maintaining a three-second following distance in good weather conditions and increasing that distance when roads are slick. Without adequate stopping distance, drivers can easily cause rear-end crashes.
3. Aggressive maneuvers
The driver in front could be at fault for a rear-end crash because they maneuver too aggressively. If they cut another driver off while merging into a different lane of traffic or turning onto a street, the approaching driver may not have time to slow down.
Preventable rear-end collisions can cause thousands of dollars in property damage and even more in medical expenses. Those injured in a rear-end crash may need help showing what caused the crash and why the other driver is at fault. Reviewing a car crash report with a legal professional can help drivers hold others accountable for unsafe traffic conduct.