Unfortunately, vehicle accidents happen every
day and many could be easily prevented. Let’s take a look at the most common
crashes on Australian roads and how you can avoid becoming a statistic.
1.
Nose-to-tail - Also called the
‘rear-ender’, nose-to-tail car accidents account for the highest number of
crashes on Australian roads. The main cause of a rear-ender is not enough space
between cars. As a general rule, it is advised to keep a three second gap
between your vehicle and the one up ahead (more in poor conditions, such as wet
weather).
2.
Side-on - Adjacent direction crashes are second on the list and are
mostly caused when a vehicle fails to give way. The reasons for this are usually
to do with reduced visibility such as poor or blinding light or obstructions,
but can also be caused by carelessness. To avoid side-on accidents, check and
double check before crossing intersections, always proceed with caution and
prepare to brake in a hurry.
3.
Head-on - Opposite direction collisions are usually caused by vehicles up
ahead wanting to cross your path. This is mostly to do with time and gap
judgement. If you are in the car waiting to turn in front of an oncoming
vehicle, remember the old saying ‘it’s better to be safe than sorry’, and just
wait it out if you’re unsure. If you are in the moving car and see another
vehicle waiting to cross your path, back off the accelerator and be prepared to
brake.
4.
Off path in a curve - Speed is a major factor in cars running off
roads in a corner. Remember to always stick to the speed limit and use caution
on bends. There are often signs along windy roads with recommended speeds for
entering each corner, so take note and slow down!
5. Off path in
a straight - Driver fatigue,
swerving to miss an unexpected obstacle and other distractions such as mobile
phones, can all result in driving off a straight road. Minimise these by
ensuring you are always well rested and alert before getting behind the wheel
of your car. If an obstacle appears on the road ahead, slow down and take note
of your surroundings; try to avoid swerving. As for the mobile phone, turn it
off or on silent and place it somewhere out of reach so you are not tempted.
