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Rear-End Collisions: Insights from a Central Florida Personal Injury Lawyer

Rear-end collisions are some of the most serious types of collisions that can occur. Unfortunately, they are also one of the most common. To avoid rear-end collisions, and to be able to navigate the aftermath in the case you do get into a rear-end collision, it’s essential to understand why they happen, the kinds of injuries they cause, and how to determine liability. By understanding the basics of rear-end collisions, you are better-equipped to deal with the situation if it does occur so that it doesn’t completely derail your life.

Common Causes of Rear-End Crashes

Rear-end collisions happen when the front of one vehicle hits the back of another. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that 29% of all crashes are rear-end collisions, and they are the culprit behind a significant amount of fatalities and injuries per year. Most of these cases happen when the lead vehicle is not moving or moving very slowly. Some common factors that contribute to rear-end crashes are listed below:

  • Tailgating: Following too closely behind another vehicle gives them less reaction time to avoid a collision if the car in front suddenly stops
  • Distracted driving: Distracted driving, including talking on the phone, texting, eating, or other activities that takes the driver’s attention off the road, is a leading cause of rear-end crashes
  • Speeding: The faster you go, the less time you have to react to sudden changes in traffic flow.
  • Sudden stop: When the lead vehicle unexpectedly stops, rear-end crashes may occur. This is especially true if the following driver is not paying close attention. Both parties may be responsible here, as the rear driver is also expected to anticipate the possibility that the driver ahead of them may suddenly stop and are supposed to maintain a clear and assured distance.
  • Weather conditions: It can be more difficult to stop quickly or react to the car in front of you under poor weather conditions such as fog, ice, or rain.
  • Mechanical failures: Brake failures or other types of mechanical issues may result in rear-end collisions.

Common Injuries In Rear-End Crashes

  • Whiplash
  • Back injuries
  • Head injuries
  • Chest injuries
  • Facial injuries
  • Soft tissue injuries
  • Chest injuries

Determining Liability In Rear-End Crashes

Florida is a no-fault state for car accident, which means that your own insurance should cover any crash-related damages up to $10,000 no matter who is at fault. However, when there are significant damages that go over $10,000 there may be a claim pursued against the at-fault driver. While most people assume the driver in the rear is at-fault for a rear-end crash, this isn’t necessarily always the case. Some situations where the lead vehicle may be liable for a rear-end crash include:

  • Stopping with warning in a travel lane
  • Reversing abruptly
  • Malfunctioning brake lights

Contact Us Today

Rear-end collisions can be tricky to navigate, especially if you were the rear-end driver and do not think you were at-fault for the collision. Having an experienced auto accident attorney on your side will optimize your chances of getting the compensation you deserve. Call BCN Law Firm to schedule a consultation with a Florida auto accident attorney today.