What typically causes most rear-end collisions?

Most rear-end collisions are typically caused by the car in the back following too closely, also known as tailgating. When a driver does not maintain a safe following distance, they have less time to react to the actions of the vehicle in front of them. If the vehicle ahead suddenly brakes or slows down, the driver in the rear may not have enough time to stop, resulting in a collision.

This behavior can be exacerbated by various factors such as distractions, speed, and road conditions, but the fundamental issue lies in the inability to stop safely due to improper following distance. Maintaining a safe gap allows drivers to have adequate time to react to unexpected events, reducing the likelihood of a rear-end accident even if the vehicle in front slows down or stops unexpectedly.

In contrast, while sudden stopping by the car in front, adverse weather conditions, and distracted driving can contribute to collisions, they are not the primary cause of most rear-end accidents. The crux of the issue lies in the driver's responsibility to keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, emphasizing the importance of defensive driving practices.