Car Accident Lawyer
Rear End Collisions
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Rear End Collisions
Car Accident LawyerGet a Free Consultation
Have you been hit in a rear end collision?
Rear end collisions happen more than any other type of car crash. Even though other types of accidents can be much more dangerous in terms of injuries and vehicle damage, an estimated 1,700 people die every rear due to rear end accident injuries. Approximately 1.7 million rear end car crashes happen in the U.S. every year.
The driver following another car is typically at fault for causing the accident. Even if not completely at fault, they are almost always partially at fault. About 81% of rear end accidents happen when the car in front has stopped.
The Most Common Causes of Rear End Collisions
Distracted driving
The National Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that distracted driving causes 87% of rear end car accidents. Texting is the most hazardous form of distraction because it impairs your sight, limits at least one hand, and takes all your attention off the road. Average texts take up a driver’s attention for 5 seconds, whether sending or receiving the text. When driving 55 mph, you can drive the length of a football field in 5 seconds.
Failing to maintain a safe distance
Maintain a safe distance between your car and the car ahead of you. Of course this distance is relative to the speed that you and the car in front of you are traveling. You can test it by spotting an object that the vehicle in front passes and begin counting “one thousand and one, one thousand and two.” If you pass the object before you reach one thousand and two, you know you’re too close. If driving conditions are foggy, roads are icy or are dirt or gravel roads, or if you’re towing a camper, you should factor in more seconds to keep a safe distance.
Other causes of rear end car crashes
While the main two causes of rear end accidents are distracted driving and following too closely (in that order), other causes include:
- Hydroplaning
- Failing to yield the right of way
- Losing control of your car
- Not using turn signals when changing lanes
- Tailgating
- Suddenly hitting the brakes when a car is behind you
Distracted driving
The National Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that distracted driving causes 87% of rear end car accidents. Texting is the most hazardous form of distraction because it impairs your sight, limits at least one hand, and takes all your attention off the road. Average texts take up a driver’s attention for 5 seconds, whether sending or receiving the text. When driving 55 mph, you can drive the length of a football field in 5 seconds.
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Failing to maintain a safe distance
Maintain a safe distance between your car and the car ahead of you. Of course this distance is relative to the speed that you and the car in front of you are traveling. You can test it by spotting an object that the vehicle in front passes and begin counting “one thousand and one, one thousand and two.” If you pass the object before you reach one thousand and two, you know you’re too close. If driving conditions are foggy, roads are icy or are dirt or gravel roads, or if you’re towing a camper, you should factor in more seconds to keep a safe distance.
Other causes of rear end crashes
While the main two causes of rear end accidents are distracted driving and following too closely (in that order), other causes include:
- Hydroplaning
- Failing to yield the right of way
- Losing control of your car
- Not using turn signals when changing lanes
- Tailgating
- Suddenly hitting the brakes when a car is behind you
What precautions to take to avoid rear end car accidents
Use preventative technologies
New technologies include rear view cameras and automatic emergency braking systems. Many new vehicle models today have rear view cameras, which provide greater visibility. The braking systems work in tandem with the cameras to set off alarms or notify drivers when they’re too close to another vehicle. Some systems engage the brakes when the distance is too close to a car ahead of them. This helps drivers with slow reaction times or who have trouble gauging safe distances to slow and avoid accidents. Today cars also have head rests that protect occupants’ necks against whiplash when rear-ended.
Follow safe driving tips
Other actions drivers can take to avoid rear end collisions include:
- Maintaining functioning brake lights
- Remaining focused (no texting, talking or other distractions)
- Paying attention to the road and surrounding cars
- Avoiding speeding, braking suddenly and other reckless driving
- Staying calm and not becoming emotionally angry at other drivers
- Not driving while fatigued
- Not driving under the influence
Get Legal Help for
Serious Injury or Significant Car Damage
Whenever a car accident causes serious injury or significant vehicle damage, it is wise to consult with an attorney. Insurance companies often try to avoid large payouts, but when the accident isn’t your fault, the other driver is legally responsible to pay for damages. A lawyer can ensure your claim reflects the other party’s percentage of fault and that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Call the Law Office of Michael R. De La Paz at (210) 225-HURT (4878) or toll free (800) 645-8553 to arrange a free consultation. You can explain your situation, and we can evaluate grounds for a lawsuit to pursue compensation.
Law Office of
Michael R. De La Paz
Contact Us
Schedule a Free Consultation
Law Office of
Michael R. De La Paz
Contact Us
Schedule a Free Consultation