Rear-end collision

Rear-end collision claims, caused most frequently by tailgating, can be avoided by maintaining a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. The recommended distance is one car length for every 10 miles of driving speed. So, if you're driving 60 miles per hour, keep at least six car lengths behind the vehicle in front of you. You can also avoid being rear-ended by not rushing to a red light or stop sign and coming to an abrupt stop. Instead, you should gradually slow to a stop and identify an escape route in case the driver behind you isn't paying attention.

If you are being tailgated, don't slam on the breaks to ”send a message” to thedriver behind you that is following too closely. Instead, pull over at a safe location and let the them pass. The welfare of you and your family is worth more than any message.

Single vehicle collision

Single vehicle collisions are caused most frequently by slick road conditions. This time of year, even when the roads appear clear and dry, there may be black ice that could cause vehicles to lose control and crash into guardrails or snow banks. To avoid single vehicle collisions, be aware of the conditions under which you are driving. Recognize that the single most common citation for vehicles involved in single vehicle collisions is that the vehicle operator was “traveling too fast for conditions.” The best way to avoid having to make panic or emergency stops is to maintain a speed that is reasonable for the conditions under which you are driving, and always make sure you leave plenty of stopping room.

Distracted driving is another leading cause of single vehicle collisions. In fact, a driver that is texting while driving is 23 times more likely to crash.

Maintaining your car properly can make all the difference in safe driving during this time of year. Keeping your wheels properly aligned and shock absorbers in good condition will help you maintain control of your vehicle when you encounter standing water (avoiding hydroplaning) or potholes.

Collision with parked car

Collisions with parked cars often occur in parking lots or parking garages. To avoid this type of accident, drive slowly and cautiously. Make sure that all your windows are clear of ice and snow before you put your car into gear. Also make sure the inside of your windshield is not fogged or moist. Keeping the inside of your windows clean is even more important this time of year, because conditions outside will be making the exterior of your windows dirtier than usual. Being able to see what's around you and avoid potential hazards simply prevents accidents. Even low impact collisions can end up being pretty costly.

Collision while backing up

Claims for collisions occurring while backing up are most frequently a result of the driver exiting a driveway or parking space without looking, or when two drivers are backing up simultaneously without looking, and can easily be avoided. To avoid this type of collision, double check that the coast is clear, utlize all your mirrors (rear-view and side; along with your rear-view camera if you're lucky enough to own a vehicle equipped with this fantastic safety feature) and back out slowly. Distractions at this time can prove dangerous, so ask your passengers for silence while you're backing up and getting out of your parking space.

Out-of-lane collision

Out of lane collision claims are most frequently a result of a vehicle changing lanes at the same time another vehicle is overtaking and passing one. To avoid these collisions, check all blind spots and make sure it is safe to change lanes. During wet weather and especially at night, recognize that lane markers can be obscured, and where you and the car next to you think your lanes are bounded may not be the same. Use extra caution in driving when you can't clearly make out the lane markers.

Many of these accidents involve inexperienced drivers. In fact, 16-year-olds have higher crash rates than drivers of any other age.

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