How can you prevent a rear-end collision?

Maintaining a safe following distance is crucial in preventing rear-end collisions. A safe distance allows for adequate reaction time if the vehicle in front of you suddenly slows down or stops. This buffer helps ensure that you can respond calmly and safely to unexpected situations, such as a traffic signal changing or an obstacle appearing in the roadway.

If you’re tailgating or following too closely, you have less time to react, which increases the likelihood of a collision. A general rule of thumb for a safe following distance is the "three-second rule," where you should be at least three seconds behind the vehicle in front of you. Adjusting this distance based on speed, weather conditions, and road situations is essential for ensuring safety on the road.

In contrast, options like speeding up to merge or braking suddenly do not provide the necessary preventative measures a driver needs to avoid accidents. Using your horn can alert others but does not create the physical space needed to prevent a collision. Thus, maintaining a safe following distance stands out as the most effective approach in avoiding rear-end collisions.