According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, approximately 28% of crashes are rear-end collisions, with many of these leading to serious injuries. Many people think of these types of collisions as minor fender-benders but, the truth is, rear-end accidents can be incredibly severe and cause lasting injuries. Rear-end collisions are actually the third leading cause of fatalities in car accidents.

Being injured in a car accident can have an enormous impact on your life in many ways. If you have been injured, you might spend time in the hospital or away from work, which can impact you both physically and financially. Negligent drivers who caused your rear-end accident should be prepared to compensate you for your losses.

Common Causes Leading to Rear-End Accidents

Tailgating: Drivers who share our roads are always urged to obey by a certain following distance so that they are not following the driver in front of them too closely. If you are, there is always a chance that a rear-end collision could happen, especially when a driver has to slam on their brakes for any reason. 

Speeding: When drivers are speeding, they are unable to slow down in time when traffic is at a standstill. This could result in a rear-end collision in the blink of an eye.

Distractions: Drivers sometimes take their minds and eyes off the roads around them. This occurs in cases where a driver is eating and drinking, texting, taking on the phone, or grooming themselves. When doing so, a driver is not able to see the movements of the driver in front of them. 

Drunk Driving: When drivers are intoxicated, there is a delay in their general reaction time. This means that they could slam into the vehicle in front of them at top speeds.

Weather Conditions: When there is ice, heavy rain, and fog on the roads, a driver should always reduce their speed so that they do not cause a rear-end collision.

Serious Injuries Resulting from Rear-End Accidents 

Even in the most low-impacting rear-end collision, minor injuries can result. In other cases, especially when a driver is traveling at top speeds, the injuries could be more catastrophic in nature. Some might even end in permanent disability, leaving a victim to wonder where they will turn as they miss out on time at work and have to take care of large medical bills. It is important that victims seek immediate medical attention after an accident so that they can move forward during these challenging times.

Some of the common injuries that occur in rear-end collisions include:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Whiplash injuries and other injuries to the neck
• Broken bones
• Internal bleeding
• Shoulder and knee injuries

How an Attorney Can Help When You Have Been Injured 

Many rear-end collisions can be prevented. However, when negligence is at play, an accident could occur in the blink of an eye, risking the lives of many. Victims should always speak with a car accident attorney at Sheftall & Associates so that they can move forward after an accident that has caused them harm. We have experience navigating the legal system and helping those in need. Please contact our law firm at (904) 575-9026 for the help you deserve.