Why are rear-end crashes common on highways?

Rear-end crashes are common on highways primarily because many drivers follow too closely, often referred to as tailgating. When a driver tailgates, they reduce their ability to react in time to sudden stops or slowdowns in traffic. Highways often have varying speeds, and if the vehicle in front unexpectedly slows down or stops, the tailgating driver may not have enough time or space to brake safely, leading to a collision.

While the use of mirrors is important for overall vehicle safety, neglecting to use them is not the primary cause of rear-end accidents. Similarly, while changing lanes frequently can create hazards, it doesn't directly lead to the majority of rear-end crashes. As for speed limits being too high, they play a role in general highway safety but do not specifically explain the prevalence of rear-end collisions, which are more directly influenced by driving behavior such as following too closely.