What is a rear-end accident? Rear-end crashes occur when one vehicle on the roadway runs directly into the rear bumper of the vehicle in front of it. In most cases that we know of, these accidents are caused by a driver who is unable to stop in time, whether it be due to sudden braking or speeding. Some of these accidents are so forceful that they can lead to a multi-vehicle collision when a vehicle is pushed into the one in front of it. There are many more causes of these accidents than just somebody who is tailgating another driver, some of which include reasons that are out of our control.
When Driver Negligence Leads to a Rear-End Accident
In many cases, however, rear-end collisions are entirely in our control, which means that we can take preventive matters to stop these accidents from happening. It also means that, if a driver engages in certain acts and an accident occurs, they could be held responsible for the accident under negligence laws. It also means that you, as the injured plaintiff, might be able to receive compensation for the resulting injuries. Here are some ways in which driver negligence contribute to these accidents:
- Driving under the influence, which can contribute to slower reaction times, lapse in judgment, and visual impairment.
- Distracted driving, such as talking on the phone or sending/viewing text messages.
- Drowsy driving, which can cause a driver to fall asleep and lose control behind the wheel.
- Inattention or inability to brake in order to avoid a collision.
- Speeding and not being able to stop in time.
When Rear-Ends Happen for Other Reasons
Sometimes, rear-end accidents are affected by external factors outside of human control. Here are some times that other aspects take over and lead to rear-end crashes:
- When a vehicle has a defect, such as brake issues, tire failure, or another aspect that cause a driver to lose control.
- Road defects and weather conditions that cause a driver to lose control.
- Employer negligence, such as employers who failed to train an employee properly, leading to a serious collision.
Rear-End Accidents Are Becoming the Norm 
Car accidents happen every single day, with some types more prevalent than others. Studies have shown that more than 25% of all motor vehicle accidents involve a rear-end collision, though studies are also showing that there are ways that we can prevent these crashes. For instance, vehicles that are equipped with modern technology, such as front crash prevention and automatic braking, are known to reduce the amount of rear-end collisions we experience, even when other factors are at play.
A rear-end collision can happen at any time and sometimes we can’t properly prepare for these accidents. These unique types of car accidents can lead to serious injuries, such as whiplash, spinal injuries, and even broken bones. An experienced and compassionate personal injury attorney can help you through this difficult time if you are unsure of where to turn after you have been struck by a negligent driver. Please contact us at Katz, Kantor, Stonestreet & Buckner to find out how we can assist you in your time of need at (304) 713-2014.