Understanding Rear-end Auto Accidents
Rear-end accidents have the potential to cause serious injuries and vehicular damage. When a rear-end accident is caused by another driver’s negligence, attorney Hardin R. Ramey offers legal assistance to help injured parties recover the compensation they deserve.
Many people assume the driver in the back of a rear-end car accident is automatically at fault but that’s not always the case which is why understanding rear-end auto accidents is so important for Dallas, TX, drivers.
What Happens in a Rear-end Accident?
Simply put, a rear-end accident is a collision where a driver hits the back of the vehicle in front of them. Usually, collisions are between two vehicles but sometimes one rear-end collision can trigger a chain reaction and cause multiple vehicles to collide.
Rear-end accidents often happen at stop signs or red lights but can also happen during heavy traffic. Sometimes a rear-end collision will happen when a vehicle has stopped and the trailing vehicle is moving too fast to safely stop without hitting the vehicle in front.
Another scenario is when both vehicles are moving forward but the rear driver is going faster than the leading vehicle, causing the rear vehicle to drive into the back of the front vehicle.
Common Causes of Rear-end Accidents
There are many possible causes for a rear-end accident. Some of the most common include:
- Distracted driving: Distracted driving is one of the biggest causes of all accidents and occurs whenever a driver takes their attention off of the road. When a driver is distracted, they may not realize the driver in front of them has stopped until it’s too late.
- Drunk driving: Drinking and driving is a dangerous combination that can cause drivers to make serious mistakes, including rear-end accidents.
- Aggressive driving: Aggressive driving, like following behind other vehicles too closely, speeding, and stopping abruptly can cause rear-end collisions.
- Hazardous weather: Hazardous weather can make Dallas roads dangerous. Wet or icy roads make it hard to stop and control vehicles, often increasing the risks of rear-end collisions.
Common Injuries from Rear-end Accidents
Rear-end collisions can cause injuries with varying degrees of severity and may cause temporary or permanent damage. Some common types of injuries seen in rear-end accidents include:
- Neck injuries, specifically whiplash
- Spinal cord injuries which can cause paralysis
- Broken bones
- Back injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
Who Is Liable for a Rear-end Accident?
It’s a common assumption that the driver who drove into the back of another driver is automatically at fault for a rear-end accident. While this can be true, sometimes both drivers share fault. For example, the front driver may be at fault or share some of the fault if they are driving while distracted and stop suddenly or if they are driving under the influence.
Insurance companies will investigate the accident to determine fault but it’s also a good idea to have a car accident attorney on your side to protect your best interests. A car accident attorney can help negotiate with insurance companies as well as pursue legal action in the event of serious injuries.
Contact Our Car Accident Attorney
If you have been injured in a rear-end collision, our Dallas car accident attorney can review the details of your accident and help you get the compensation you deserve. To schedule a consultation, call (972) 437-5577.