What is a sudden stop accident?

Applying heavy braking to stop your car might result in a collision with another vehicle. This is known as a sudden stop accident. Such collisions can happen when you're following someone, and they suddenly stop, causing you to slam into them. Alternately, you can be the one who has to stop quickly and is hit from behind by a negligent driver. Depending on how fast you're moving, you could sustain injuries ranging from minor whiplash to more serious ones.

Why do sudden stop accidents happen?

Drivers may need to stop on the highway for various reasons abruptly. For instance, a driver can encounter someone crossing the street in front of them or a significant amount of debris on the road. In that case, they might have to use brakes suddenly. In accidents caused by stopping on the highway, there is a strong likelihood that these may result in fatalities.

On highways, there is also a possibility that a vehicle will swerve in front of the car/truck, forcing them to slam on their brakes to avoid colliding with the vehicle now in front of them. These incidents frequently result in severe rear-end collisions. This makes up around one-fourth of all motor vehicle collisions today.

Other possible reasons of Sudden Stop Accidents can be:

Distracted Drivers

Drivers can become distracted in various ways, which may lead to a crash caused by an abrupt halt. Distractions include:

● Playing with your GPS or radio while driving.
● Texting while driving.
● Utilizing hands-free technology to communicate.

There are other types of distractions than phone calls. Passengers might also divert your attention. The use of drugs, alcohol, or prescriptions while driving can potentially cause distractions. They are typically at fault in such cases.

Passing other vehicles too closely

Depending on your speed and the weather, you should adjust how far you drive from the cars in front of you. Your stopping distance increases with your speed. As a result, you must leave enough room between your car and the one in front of it. You need to be considerably further away if it is raining. Your tires will have less resistance when there is water on the road. Also, you should extend your stopping distance even further if the road is icy.

The one driving behind may be at fault if the person in front of them applies brakes abruptly and follows too closely.

Broken Brake Lights

Checking the functionality of your brake lights is important. If you stop more quickly than usual and the brake lights are not working, the driver behind you might also not have enough time to stop. They might slam into the back of your car because they will brake too late.

Poor vehicle maintenance

In general, poor vehicle maintenance can shorten your stopping distances. You can have trouble stopping quickly if your brake pads are worn out, your tyres don't have enough tread, or your car's alignment is incorrect. If you are in an accident and show that the other driver did not maintain their car, you might be able to make a claim.

Actions you must take after a sudden stop accident

After a collision caused by a quick stop, the initial seconds are frequently tense. It is common for both drivers to believe the other was to blame for an accident. You must avoid arguments and never place blame while the incident is still in progress. Before anyone can demonstrate responsibility, the situation must be evaluated objectively.

Make sure you stop your car in a secure location, then get out on the side that will keep you safe. You and the other motorist must exchange insurance information. And if they are refusing to give you their information, take a note of their license plate. 

Final Words

Consult a lawyer if you've suffered because of a sudden stop accident. You might be able to make a claim for any costs, harms, or anguish you've endured. A reputable legal firm can fight the lawsuit on your behalf and gather the necessary proof.