
David J. Glatthorn

Avoiding Rear-end Collisions in West Palm Beach

If you were injured in a Palm Beach rear-end collision, you are not alone. Rear-end car crashes are the most common type of auto accident in Florida. But, rear-end accidents can be prevented. With these tips from West Palm Beach car accident lawyer David Glatthorn, you can avoid hitting others.

To avoid causing a Palm Beach rear-end accident, do the following:

  1. Avoid tailgating. It is best to follow the "three second rule." If the car in front of you passes a stationary object by the side of the road, it should take at least three seconds for you to pass the same object. If you pass the object in fewer than three seconds, you should increase your following distance.
  2. Increase your following distance when roads are slick due to bad weather.
  3. Always leave plenty of time for braking.
  4. Avoid distractions. A vehicle travelling at 40 mph can move 60 feet in one second, a few seconds distraction is all it takes to cause a Palm Beach accident.
  5. Look ahead while driving. Watch for any conditions that may affect the car in front of you. If the car in front of you brakes, be prepared to stop.

To avoid being hit by another driver, consider these tips:

  1. Keep pace with the surrounding traffic (as long as speed limits and road and weather conditions allow you to do so safely).
  2. If another driver is following too closely, slow down gradually and carefully by removing your foot from the gas. If the driver continues to tailgate, change lanes.
  3. Avoid other drivers' blind spots.
  4. Keep your mirrors properly adjusted so you can see what is happening behind you. Check your mirrors frequently. Keep your rear window clean, so you can see behind you.
  5. Flash your brake lights when you are preparing to stop, slowing down or standing in traffic.
  6. Make sure your brakes are working and that your brake lights are visible. Keep brake lights free of dirt.
  7. Signal before turning or changing lanes.
  8. If your vehicle stalls or is otherwise disabled and you can't move out of a traffic lane, do what you can to stay visible. Use your lights, flashers and flares to let other drivers know that you are stopped.

If you are rear-ended in Palm Beach, request a free copy of The Florida Accident Workbook: Tools, Tips & Tactics to Resolve Your Injury Claim. This book offers valuable information that can help you get the insurance compensation you deserve after a Florida auto accident. To discuss your claim with a West Palm Beach car accident lawyer contact David Glatthorn at 561-659-1999.

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