Around 1.7 million rear-end collisions occur in the United States each year, making them the most common type of car accident. 17,000 Americans lose their lives annually, and 500,000 more are seriously injured due to rear-end car accidents. In 2022, there were a total of 12,800,00 crashes in the United States, according to the National Safety Council.
Dealing with the aftermath of a rear-end accident can be overwhelming. Our Rear-End Car Accident Guide dives into some of the reasons why these accidents happen, the legal steps you might encounter, and what to do if you find yourself dealing with the aftermath of a rear-end collision.
Rear-End Collision Risk Factors
Behaviors that can increase the risk of being involved in a rear-end collision include:
Tailgating or Following Too Closely
Not maintaining a safe following distance between vehicles can reduce a driver’s ability to react promptly in situations where a hazard appears on the road, or a leading vehicle abruptly stops.
Distracted driving
Drivers using cell phones, playing with the radio, eating, drinking, smoking, applying makeup, or otherwise engaged in any activity that requires them to remove their attention from the road ahead account for a significant number of rear-end collisions each year.
Failure to Obey Traffic Laws
Failing to slow down at yellow traffic signals or stop at a red light can lead to a rear-end crash when the car ahead brakes to comply with traffic laws.
Driving Too Fast for Road Conditions
When weather or road conditions are affected by rain, snow, ice, or construction, drivers should adapt by adjusting their speed and increasing the distance between vehicles.
Vehicle or Mechanical Failure
Faulty brakes or brake lights that don’t work can lead to rear-end car crashes. Have vehicles regularly inspected to be sure everything is in working order. Vehicle maintenance is considered the responsibility of the driver in situations where accidents do occur.
Driver error
Mistakes made by the driver, such as accidentally pressing the gas instead of the brake pedal contribute to some rear-end crashes.
Who is the At-Fault Driver in a Rear-End Accident?
In rear-end collisions, the rear driver is usually considered the responsible party. However, there are a few cases where the driver in front may also share some fault for the accident, such as when they:
- Suddenly slam on their brakes without warning for no discernable reason.
- Put their vehicle in reverse while occupying the roadway.
- Brake lights fail.
- Fail to signal before making a turn.
- Continuously tap their brakes or brake-check
Rear-End Car Accident Guide: How to Avoid Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end crashes are a common and unfortunate occurrence, but they’re also largely preventable. Here are some key steps you can take to avoid becoming a statistic:
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Keep Your Distance:
The 3-Second Rule: Imagine picking a fixed object (like a sign) three seconds ahead of the car you’re following. When the car passes that object, you should be passing it too. This ensures enough time to react if they brake suddenly.
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Check Your Rearview Mirror:
Check your rearview mirror, especially when braking or stopping. This helps you anticipate what’s going on behind you and avoids surprises.
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Ditch the Distractions:
Put your phone away! Talking, texting, or fiddling with anything in the car takes your focus away from driving, increasing the risk of rear-ending someone.
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Brake Smartly:
Apply brakes gently and early to give the car behind you time to react. Don’t slam on the brakes, as this can cause a chain reaction of collisions.
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Maintain Your Vehicle:
Make sure your brake lights and turn signals are in good working order. Faulty lights can lead to accidents.
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Adapt to Conditions:
Increase your following distance in bad weather, heavy traffic, or when driving behind large vehicles like trucks. Be extra cautious around construction zones, icy patches, and unpredictable animals.
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Visibility Matters:
Keep your windshield clear of snow, ice, and dirt for optimal visibility. A clear view ahead allows you to spot hazards early and react accordingly.
Remember, safe driving is a shared responsibility. By following these tips and staying alert on the road, you can help reduce your risk of being involved in a rear-end collision and keep yourself and others safe.
Berry Law’s Team Provides You With Multiple Attorney Perspectives
Rear-End Car Accident Guide: Compensation Available for People Injured in Rear-End Accidents
Being injured in a rear-end accident can be an overwhelming experience, leaving you with physical, emotional, and financial burdens. You may be wondering: what compensation am I entitled to?
Here’s a clearer breakdown of what you may be entitled to recover:
Types of Compensation:
- Medical Costs: Cover all past, present, and future medical expenses related to your injuries, including doctor visits, surgeries, therapy, and medication.
- Lost Wages & Benefits: Reimburse you for income lost due to missed work and any affected employee benefits.
- Property Damage: Repair or replace your damaged vehicle.
- Pain & Suffering: Compensate you for the physical and emotional distress caused by the accident, including anxiety, depression, and scarring. This is calculated based on the severity of your injury and its impact on your life.
Reasons to Consider Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer for Your Rear-End Accident Claim
Dealing with insurance after a rear-end traffic accident can be confusing at times. That’s where a car accident lawyer comes in, acting as your champion and fighting for the compensation you deserve.
Here’s why having a lawyer may help:
- Experience Matters: Lawyers who have skills in car accidents know the ins and outs of the law and how to deal with insurance companies who may try to minimize your claim.
- Insurance Communication: Your lawyer will handle all communication and negotiations with the insurance company, taking the pressure off you to deal with paperwork and phone calls.
- Focus on Healing: With a lawyer taking care of the legal side of things, you can focus on your physical and emotional recovery, knowing your rights are protected.
- Financial Security in a Time of Uncertainty: A settlement won’t bring back your health, but it can ease the financial burden of medical bills and lost wages, allowing you to heal without additional stress.
At Berry Law, we have a team of experienced car accident lawyers who will:
- Fight for the compensation you deserve, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Handle all the paperwork and negotiations with the insurance company, so you can focus on your recovery.
- Provide multiple perspectives and advocate for your best interests every step of the way.
Don’t settle for less than you deserve. Schedule a consultation with a Berry Law personal injury lawyer today. We’ll review your case and help you understand your options.
