Rear-end collisions are the most common accidents in the United States and across Illinois. With heavy traffic on local roads like I-94, Route 41, and the Tri-State Tollway, being a proactive driver is your best defense. We’ve refreshed our safety guide with an attentive perspective from our mascot, Roy. Read on for three modern ways to prevent a common (and costly) mishap.
1. The 3-Second Rule
This is the single most important habit for avoiding a collision. As the vehicle ahead of you passes a fixed marker—like a road sign, a power pole, or an overpass—start counting: “One-one-thousand, two-one-thousand, three-one-thousand.” If you pass the same marker before you reach “three,” you are following too closely. Remember, this distance should double or triple during our wet, rainy, or snowy Midwestern seasons.
2. Brake Early and Softly
Don’t wait until the last possible second to apply your brakes. By beginning to slow down early and gently, you do two things:
- Protect yourself: You maintain better control of your vehicle and prevent a slide.
- Warn drivers behind you: Your brake lights provide an early warning to the person behind you, giving them more time to react, which prevents you from being hit from behind!
3. Anticipate, Don’t Just React
Look further than the bumper directly in front of you. Shift your gaze to anticipate what is happening 3 or 4 cars ahead. If you see brake lights or traffic slowing down in the distance, you can adjust your speed smoothly without needing to make a sudden, reactive stop that could catch the driver behind you off guard.
In Illinois, the driver who rear-ends another is almost always found at fault. This can lead to a “Surcharge” on your premium for several years.
Contact us for all of your insurance needs!
Illinois and Wisconsin residents, at R Hobbs Insurance Agency, we can work with you to make sure you’ve got the coverage you need, while at the same time using all possible credits and discounts to make that coverage affordable. Just give us a call at (847) 680-0888 or send us a note at chris@rhobbsinsurance.com. We want to help you meet your goals, and make sure what’s important to you is protected!