What typically causes most rear-end collisions?

Most rear-end collisions are commonly caused by the vehicle in the back following too closely. This behavior, often termed as "tailgating," reduces the driver's ability to react quickly to sudden stops of the vehicle ahead. When the following driver fails to maintain a safe following distance, they may not have enough time to brake adequately if the vehicle in front comes to a sudden halt. This lack of distance can lead to a collision, particularly in situations where the front vehicle may need to stop abruptly due to changing traffic conditions or unexpected obstacles.

While vehicles stopping suddenly, driving too slowly, or adverse weather conditions can contribute to accidents, they do not account for the majority of rear-end collisions. A vehicle stopping suddenly or driving at a slower-than-normal speed may lead to these types of accidents, but they often stem from the failure of the driver behind to maintain an appropriate distance, which is a fundamental principle of safe driving. Therefore, maintaining adequate following distance is critical in preventing rear-end collisions and ensuring safe travel on the road.