Rear-end collisions are some of the most common car accidents that occur. They can cause significant damage to both vehicles and passengers, depending on the speed of the collision and vehicle specifics. Regardless of the details in any given case, if you believe you’ve been wronged by another driver in a rear-end collision, it’s advisable to contact a rear-end accident lawyer to get professional legal help recovering as much as possible for your damages.
The car accident lawyers of The JLF Firm in Riverside can help. Read on to find out more about this type of collision and what to do if you experience one.
Common Causes of Rear-End Collisions
There are several potential causes of rear-end collisions. Here are some of the most common.
Distracted driving
Distractions for drivers are at an all time high. Not only are many areas of the country peppered with distracting signage and moving pedestrians, but the fast pace of modern life has driven many to eat meals and text regularly while driving. These activities are very dangerous and have become some of the most common causes of collisions in general.
Drunk or careless driving
Unfortunately, drunk driving continues to cause problems on roads everywhere, and this is no exception. If you suspect that drunk driving was a factor in your collision, document the evidence and communicate it with your attorney and any other relevant parties.
Careless driving is also a possible cause, which may include trying to multitask while driving, driving while fatigued, and ignoring road signs or other driving rules. Tailgating is a particularly dangerous kind of careless driving, and it’s illegal under California law (California Vehicle Code 21703 VC).
Bad road conditions
There are times when wet or icy road conditions make it legitimately difficult to slow a vehicle, and this can contribute to some rear-end collisions. Even so, bad road conditions are not a reason to ignore other relevant factors that may have also played a part. After all, anyone who is aware of such collisions should already be adjusting their driving accordingly.
Vehicle issues or malfunctions
Finally, sometimes vehicles experience breakdowns of various kinds while on the road, such as brake malfunctions, loss of traction, and engine failure. Some of these issues may happen somewhat unexpectedly even to the driver in question, but keep in mind that vehicle issues may also come into play due to neglect on the part of the vehicle’s owner (such as if the owner continually left worn-out brakes on the vehicle).
Common Injuries in Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions can cause both minor and significant personal injury. Here are some of the most common injuries that occur as a result of these accidents.
Whiplash
Whiplash is relatively common in car accidents, but it can range from mild to severe. Whiplash results from the sudden “whipping” of the head forward or backward during an accident, and it causes neck and shoulder pain that may last days or weeks.
Cuts and bruises
Cuts and bruises are also relatively common as a result of sudden friction with different parts of the inside of a vehicle. Even deeper lacerations may occur, especially if any glass is broken or other sharp objects are thrown through the vehicle.
Airbag injuries
While they are designed for safety and are usually successful in preventing serious injury, there are times when the force of an airbag deployment may cause bruising, bleeding, or even broken bones. The chemicals that are released can also cause asthma or other breathing difficulties.
Other significant injuries
There are, of course, many other potential injuries that may occur, including the following:
- Traumatic brain injury
- Loss of limb
- Spine damage
- Bleeding
- Fractures
- Burns
It is often the severity of such injuries that makes it so vital for accident victims to pursue the compensation they deserve.
Who Is Responsible for a Rear-End Collision?
It is a misconception that the rear driver is always at fault in these collisions. The fault is primarily determined by establishing negligence, and negligence by any party involved may have been the primary factor in the accident.
The most important thing to do is (if you are able) document the scene as best you can with pictures, video, and other records of the specifics of what happened. Write down whether either vehicle had a dashboard camera equipped, take note of road conditions and weather, and get the information of the other party as soon as you can. If you’ve been wronged in the accident, an experienced collision attorney can help you sort through the evidence and establish negligence on the part of the other driver.
Keep in mind that, regardless of who is at fault, you are entitled to pursue the maximum coverage possible for your damages.
The JLF Firm Can Help
If you’ve been injured or otherwise wronged in a rear-end collision, contact The JLF Firm of Riverside, CA for a free consultation with us. Our legal team is ready to partner with you to pursue the compensation you deserve.
Car Accident Case FAQs
How can a lawyer help after a rear-end collision?
A rear-end accident lawyer can assist you with collecting and organizing the evidence, filing claims with insurance companies, and pursuing legal action should it become necessary.
Is the rear driver always responsible for a rear-end collision?
While in many cases the rear driver is at fault, it is not always true. This is why it’s important to take note of and document the evidence as soon as possible after such a collision.
