Accidents Caused by Debris and How to Avoid Them

By Mike Glisson | February 8, 2019

According to AAA, “Between 2011-2014, road debris was a factor in a total of more than 200,000 police-reported crashes, resulting in approximately 39,000 injuries and 500 deaths.”

Debris flying can be a huge problem, especially on interstate highways while driving high speeds. However, most accidents caused by debris are preventable. 

There are a few things that increase the rate of debris related crashes or intensify them:

Not maintaining your vehicle properly

Driving at too high of speeds

Swerving to avoid an object

Not securing a load on your vehicle properly 

AAA has offered tips on how to help drivers avoid road debris from other drivers.

  • “Drivers should continually search the road ahead at least 12 to 15 seconds for debris
  • Don’t tailgate! By maintain… at least 3 to 4 seconds of following distance…
  • If you see you are about to make contact with debris, say with a piece of tire, safely reduce your speed as much as possible prior to making contact. 
  • When driving at dusk and dawn be especially alert for animals on or near the roadway
  • Lastly, always be aware of open space around your vehicle.
      • Drivers should maintain open space to the front and at least one side of their vehicle at all times
      • Should the need arise, a driver can steer into that open space to avoid contact with an object.”

It is important to remember these tips in order to keep you and your passengers safe on the roads. If you are involved in a debris related accident call our office at 618.462.1077. to schedule a free consultation. 

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