Why are rear-end collisions so common on interstate highways?

Question

Why are rear-end collisions so common on interstate highways?

Answer 1

lots of reasons...going too fast, in a hurry, thinking about other things, talking on the phone or to people in the car, OR some people think they are being super safe and go slower  or hit their brakes when they really don't need to, when if fact if they went with the flow it would prob be safer..............personally i think people expect to be able to change lanes and can't, or they can and the people behind them can't.   two things that have me hitting my breaks is being behind a large pick-up or suv, unable to view anything beyond them. 2nd is red turn signals... don't show up very well....i feel all turn signals should be yellow.

Answer 2

because people follow too closely. The old "three second rule" is a good guideline that very few drivers actually follow.

Answer 3

Because 99% of people who get into a vehicle hit some invisible switch...  When they crank that key in the ignition their brain just switches completely off.  They become instantly, totally oblivious to anything that goes on around them.  This oblivious condition is inherently worsened by other functions--cellphonus interruptus, for example.  Most people are over-confident in their ability to multi-task.  Contrary to what they may believe, their driving ability IS hindered by talking on the phone, putting on makeup, eating, and, apparently, breathing.

Answer 4

I'll assume you don't mean as opposed to side impact.

1. Inattention - distracted by cell phone, MP3 player or radio, kid screaming in back seat, daydreaming, etc.

2. Tailgating - failing to keep a proper, safe distance between your car and the one in front of you.

3. Mechanical failure - brakes, tire blowout, etc.

4. Drunk driving

5. Tired driver - dozing or closing eyes for too long.

Answer 5

1. Speed

2. Following to closely

3. not paying attention to the car ahead of you

Answer 6

cause people are not paying attention  and are usually speeding which  does not help either