Alaska Auto Accidents Lawyers

Alaska Car Accident Lawyers, Explaining the Dangers of Tailgating

Alaska Car Accident Lawyers Explaining the Dangers of Tailgating

There are innumerable causes to Alaska car accidents, but many of them can be traced to common mistakes made by motorists who simply fall into bad habits over time.  One of the most common and most dangerous mistakes made on the road is tailgating, or following a vehicle too closely.  If you have been harmed because of another motorist making this mistake, seek the help of experienced Alaska car accident lawyers as soon as possible.  In the meantime, below is a brief introduction to this issue.

Preferred Following Distances

Most of us were taught in driver’s education classes that the proper following distance between vehicles is approximately two seconds on city streets and four seconds on highways.  These numbers were not reached by accident – they are the result of measured studies that calculate the time needed to take corrective action in order to avoid a collision based on the speed of the vehicles involved.  Unfortunately, many drivers simply do not adhere to these standards.

Consequences of Tailgating

When someone is following the vehicle in front of them too closely, it either minimizes or completely eliminates the time available to avoid a collision should something unexpected arise on the road, as it often does.  In addition, the motorist who is being followed too closely has a tendency to become nervous, and when motorists are nervous, they can become unpredictable in terms of their maneuvers.

Fallout from Tailgating

Clearly, the most common type of collision that arises when a motorist is following another too closely is the rear-end collision, which is also one of the most dangerous.  When someone is impacted from behind, it tends to place the leading motorist’s neck and head in danger, as the force of impact from behind will force the head and neck to jerk forward in an unnatural motion.

As a result of this type of collision and the response by the body, injuries such as concussions, whiplash and traumatic brain injuries can result.  These injuries can all be extremely difficult to treat and many can be completely debilitating for an extended period of time.  Any brain, neck or head injury can also prove to be fatal.

If you or someone you love has been harmed because another motorist was following you too closely, you need to seek the help of experienced Alaska car accident lawyers who have been holding negligent drivers accountable for the harm they have caused for many years.  Contact Barber & Banker today to schedule a free initial consultation.