What You Need to Know About Rear-End Collisions

In 2013, it was reported that 40 percent of all car accidents in the U.S. are read-end collisions. This type of accident occurs when a driver hits the car in front of him with his front end. Rear-end accidents happen for many reasons, especially when the driver behind follows another car too closely. However, more specific circumstances contribute rear-end collisionto rear-end accidents, including:

  • Distracted Driving. If a driver is texting or talking on a cell phone, eating or drinking, or changing the radio station, he isn’t paying full attention to the road or his surroundings.
  • Tailgating. When a driver follows too closely to the car in front of him, he isn’t thinking about how quickly that car can make a sudden change, slow down, or stop. Often, people tailgate other cars when they are in a rush or trying to pass. If a car stops suddenly, a tailgater will almost certainly cause a rear-end crash.
  • DUI. Another common cause of rear-end accidents is impaired or intoxicated drivers. Drugs and alcohol can impair a driver’s ability to make good driving decisions and react quickly to sudden stops.

When You’re Rear-Ended

Rear-end accidents are scary, and victims of these types of accidents can experience painful injuries. The most common types of injuries associated with rear-end collisions are:

  • Whiplash. One of the most common rear-end injuries, whiplash refers to injuries involving the neck as it whips forward during the impact. It’s imperative that you seek medical attention if you’re experiencing:
    • Severe neck pain
    • Dizziness
    • Decreased range of motion
    • Blurred vision
    • Shoulder, arm, or back pain
  • Bone Fractures. Because your seat belt tightens up to protect you from flying forward in a rear-end collision, victims often suffer from broken collar bones. Additionally, when your head whips forward on impact, you might hit your head or face on the steering wheel, which could result in fractured facial bones.
  • Internal Bleeding. When a car hits you from behind, the impact forces your body forward. Sometimes, this impact causes your internal organs to collide and injure each other, resulting in internal bleeding. This is a serious injury that needs immediate medical attention.

If you’ve been rear-ended, you need the help of a trusted attorney during this confusing and difficult time. Contact the lawyers at Tavss Fletcher at 877.960.3441. We have the experience to help you if you’ve been in a collision.

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