Rear-end accidents come as a surprise to many motorists. You might be stopped when, all of a sudden, your body lurches forward because a negligent driver rammed into the back of your vehicle. Even if you think liability is clear in these situations, irresponsible drivers seldom admit their mistakes.
Here is what you need to know about rear-end accidents and how a lawyer can help you.
What Is a Rear-End Accident?
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), rear-end accidents are the most common type of motor vehicle accident. They occur when one vehicle’s front hits the back of the vehicle in front of it. These accidents account for about 29% of all motor vehicle crashes each year.
Common Causes of Rear-End Collisions
These accidents are often due to driver distraction or inattention. Leading causes of rear-end collision include:
- Texting while driving
- Cell phone use
- Inattention
- Following too closely
- Speeding
- Failing to respond promptly to a stopped or decelerating lead vehicle
Injuries You Might Suffer After a Rear-End Accident
The physics involved in a rear-end collision make the following injuries more likely in a rear-end accident:
- Whiplash – Whiplash is the leading injury following a rear-end accident. This injury occurs because the neck snaps forward and then back in this type of accident, mimicking the action of a cracking whip.
- Back injuries – If the accident victim anticipated the accident, such as seeing someone driving toward them in their rearview mirror, they could have reflexively braced for impact. Their tightened muscles or ligaments can tear or be strained.
- Traumatic brain injury – Being hit from behind can propel your body forward into a hard surface, such as the steering wheel or dashboard. This can cause blunt force to your brain, resulting in severe brain injuries.
- Broken bones – The force of the impact can fracture one or more bones.
- Soft tissue injuries – Your muscles, tendons, ligaments, or other soft tissues can be torn, sprained, or strained.
Proving Liability in a Rear-End Accident
In most rear-end accidents, the driver in the rear vehicle is to blame for the accident. Texas law requires drivers to maintain a safe distance between them and other vehicles. Even if a driver in front of you suddenly stops, you should have enough time and space to avoid a collision if you are not following too closely.
However, there are times when the lead vehicle may be at fault for a rear-end collision, such as if the lead driver:
- Did not have working tail lights or brake lights
- Was having a mechanical issue
- Was driving in reverse
An experienced Laredo, TX car accident lawyer can review your case and gather evidence to prove fault. This evidence may include:
- Accident reports
- Video footage from traffic cameras, dash cams, or nearby surveillance systems
- Accident scene photos
- Witness statements
- Cell phone records
- Maintenance records
- Electronic data stored in the vehicles
Contact the Gonzalez Druker Law Firm for a Free Case Review Today
If you were injured in a rear-end accident in Laredo, the Gonzalez Druker Law Firm is here to help. We have over 45 years of combined experience handling car accident claims and can fight for maximum compensation. Call us at (956) 728-9191 for your free consultation.