Rear-end collisions are some of the most upsetting accidents because there is almost nothing that you can do to stop others from hitting you from behind. You may not see them coming, and you may not have room to maneuver out of the way even if you do. What causes rear-end collisions, though, and what can you do if it happens to you? Read on to learn the answer to both questions and more.
What causes rear-end collisions?
These accidents are caused by all kinds of different behaviors, including:
- Tailgating: When a driver follows the car in front of them too closely, they may not have enough time to brake or react to sudden changes in traffic.
- Distracted driving: Texting, talking on the phone, eating, grooming, or engaging in other activities while driving can divert a driver’s attention from the road.
- Speeding: Driving too fast for the road conditions can make it difficult to stop in time to avoid hitting someone.
- Poor weather conditions: Rain, fog, snow, and ice can make it difficult to see the road ahead and to stop in time to avoid a collision.
- Mechanical failure: Faulty brakes, worn tires, and other mechanical problems are other common culprits.
- Driver fatigue: A tired driver may have slower reaction times, making it difficult to stop in time to avoid an accident.
- Driving under the influence: When a driver is impaired by drugs or alcohol, their ability to react quickly to changes in traffic is diminished.
- Sudden stops: When a driver stops suddenly, it can catch the driver behind them off guard, making it difficult for them to stop in time to avoid a collision.
- Road conditions: Potholes, uneven pavement, and other road hazards can cause a driver to lose control of their vehicle, resulting in accidents.
Who is usually at fault in a rear-end collision?
In most cases, the driver who rear-ends another vehicle is considered at fault for the accident. This is because drivers have a duty to maintain a safe distance and exercise caution to avoid collisions.
However, there may be exceptions depending on the specific circumstances, such as when the lead driver suddenly and unexpectedly stops or reverses without warning.
What kinds of injuries could you suffer in a rear-end crash?
There are many kinds of injuries that you could suffer if you’re involved in a crash, such as:
- Whiplash, where your head and neck are thrown forward and back violently.
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Broken bones
- Lacerations
- Bruising
- Spinal injuries
The sudden impact of a rear-end crash can be devastating to the people inside your vehicle. If you’re hit, remember to call 911 and ask the emergency team to come to your location as soon as possible.
What should I do if I’ve been involved in a rear-end car crash?
If you’ve been involved in a rear-end collision, take the following steps:
- Check for injuries and call emergency services if necessary.
- Move the vehicles to a safe location, if possible, and turn on hazard lights.
- Exchange information with the other driver(s) involved, including names, contact information, insurance details, and vehicle information.
- Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
- Report the accident to your insurance company.
- Seek medical attention, even if you don’t have immediately visible injuries, as some injuries may have delayed symptoms.
- Consult with a personal injury attorney experienced in car accidents to understand your rights and potential legal options.
What kinds of compensation can you get after a crash?
After a crash, you may be able to get a few different kinds of compensation. You can seek out economic damages, which are actual financial losses you’ve suffered. You can also seek out noneconomic damages, like compensation for pain and suffering.
If you decide that you would like to make a claim against the other party, keep all your receipts as well as your medical records and other notes about the collision. The more evidence you have about your injuries, the better it is for your case. Your attorney will help organize these documents and negotiate with the other party’s insurance or, if you go to court, present those items as evidence to the court.
You deserve support after an auto collision
No matter what the reason is, if you’re hit by another party, you deserve the opportunity to make a claim against them. You could have serious injuries as a result of the rear-end crash, and they should be held accountable if they were driving in a negligent or dangerous manner.