Stay Out Of The Auto Body Shop By Avoiding These Most Common Causes of Collisions
There are a number of different situations that result in automobile accidents. Rear-enders, side-impact crashes, and hydroplaning are cited as frequent causes; followed by animal collisions, and hitting a parked car. Understanding both the common causes of auto collisions as well as safe practices for prevention will increase driver safety and keep your car out of the auto body shop.
Five Common Causes and Tips for Prevention
- Rear-end collisions account for 29% of all automobile accidents. In order to avoid rear-end collisions, be attentive to the road and your surroundings. More importantly, stay off of your cell phone when driving.
- Side-impact crashes – also known as “T-bone” crashes – are extremely dangerous collisions that account for 27% of the passenger vehicle occupant deaths in the U.S. in 2009. It is imperative to practice vigilance when driving and have a firm understanding of driving laws. Notably, be attentive when approaching stop signs and red lights, and look both ways when you have the right of way.
- Hydroplaning occurs when the roadways are wet and a vehicle drives over a large area of standing water. As a result, a layer of water builds between the road surface and the wheels of a vehicle, creating a loss of traction. A driver will lose the ability to control and steer the vehicle when hydroplaning. In order to prevent hydroplaning, drive with caution in the rain. In the instance of hydroplaning, apply steady pressure to the breaks and allow the vehicle to gradually come to stop.
- Animal Collisions are a prevalent occurrence; anyone in the Northeast is sure to see a deer or two along the road this time of year. Be mindful of animal-crossing signs, drive using your high beams when in rural areas, and follow the speed limit in order to decrease your likelihood of hitting an animal.
- Hitting a parked car while pulling out of a parking spot is a common cause of scratches and dings. Be cognizant of your surroundings and the size of your car when leaving a parking spot. Remember to look behind you and in all directions in addition to using your mirrors.