South Florida Injury Lawyer Blog
As West Palm Beach personal injury lawyers, we recognize that cases involving rear-end collisions are not only some of the common, but sometimes the most serious. It’s important to understand why they happen, the typical injuries they cause, who is usually liable and what civil claims could be worth.
Our goal here is to ensure clients – and even potential clients – understand the basics so they’re better empowered to navigate the aftermath and seek appropriate compensation.
What Causes Rear-End Crashes
Rear-end collisions occur when the front of one vehicle strikes the back of another.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), rear-end crashes account for 29% of all crashes and result in a substantial number of injuries and fatalities every year. Rear-end collisions in which the lead vehicle is stopped or moving very slowly prior to the crash account for most of these cases.
Common factors cited in rear-end crashes include:
- Distracted driving. The leading cause of rear-end crashes is driver distraction. This includes texting, talking on the phone, eating, or any activity that diverts attention from the road.
- Tailgating. Following too closely behind another vehicle reduces the reaction time needed to avoid a collision if the car in front stops suddenly.
- Speeding. Higher speeds decrease the amount of time a driver has to react to sudden stops or changes in traffic flow, increasing the likelihood of a rear-end collision.
- Weather conditions. Poor weather conditions like rain, fog, or ice can make it harder to stop quickly, leading to more frequent rear-end accidents.
- Sudden stops. Unexpected stops by the lead vehicle, whether due to traffic signals, pedestrians, or other obstacles, can result in a rear-end crash if the following driver is not paying close attention. (That doesn’t mean the rear driver isn’t responsible. They are expected to anticipate the possibility that the driver ahead of them will make sudden stops and maintain an assured, clear distance.)
- Mechanical failures. Brake failures or other mechanical issues can also cause rear-end collisions.
Injuries That Result From Rear-End Crashes
Injuries in rear-end crashes can range from minor to severe, depending on the speed of impact and other factors. Continue reading
