Rear End Collision Injuries

Car accidents involving a rear end collision are the most common type of car accident. There are an estimated 2.5 million rear collisions per year according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.[1] Usually, rear end collisions are caused by an inattentive or distracted driver who causes a car accident by crashing into the rear of another vehicle.

At Jones Law Group, we prioritize our clients because we understand that a fair settlement can be transformational for their lives after a rear-end accident. Call us at (727) 571-1333 or reach out through our online contact form to schedule a free consultation.

Young Drivers Are More Likely To Be Cause Rear End Collision

Drivers under the age of 18 are more likely to be the rear car in a rear-end collision. Most of these accidents are completely avoidable. In fact, most rear end collisions are caused by one of the following factors:

1. Tailgating – The Florida law on tailgating simply states that cars should not follow more closely than reasonably prudent in light of the conditions.[2] This means that at higher speeds and in inclement weather, the following distance should be increased.
2. Distracted Drivers – Drivers who are texting, eating, or otherwise distracted often are unable to stop in time to avoid rear end collisions;
3. Car Accidents – Oftentimes, a car accident in the roadway will cause the following cars to stop suddenly. If the rear driver is distracted or following too close, it can cause the lead driver to be rear-ended.
4. Drunk Drivers The consumption of alcohol impairs the reflexes of the driver and, in many instances, leads to rear end collisions;
5. Children, Animals, and Objects The sudden appearance of a child, animal, or object in the road can force drivers to stop suddenly, leaving the rear car unable to stop if they are following too close.
6. Weather – Rain and snow can drastically alter the driving patterns and cause unpredictable starts and stops, as well as dramatically increasing stopping distances.

Who is at Fault in a Rear End Collision?

As a general rule the rear driver will be at fault in rear end collisions. However, that is not always the case. Sometimes a portion or all of the fault may lie with the lead driver. For example, if the lead car:

1. Suddenly changed lanes and slammed on the brakes;
2. Abruptly stopped without warning or reason;
3. Stopped suddenly to execute a turn, but failed to turn;
4. Suddenly put their car in reverse;
5. Had malfunctioning or no brake lights; or
6. Was operating their car in a negligent manner (swerving, talking on the phone, etc.)

In any of the above situations, the lead driver may be held partially or completely to blame for the accident. It is extremely important to begin gathering evidence in situations where liability is disputed. Interestingly, drivers under the age of 18 are twice as likely to be struck in the rear end by another car.[1]

Common Injuries in Rear End Collisions

The injuries sustained by people involved in a rear end collision can be significant and commonly include the following:

1. Whiplash type injuries;
2. Concussions and other traumatic brain injuries;
3. Fractured or broken bones;
4. Spinal cord damage; and
5. Neck and back injuries;

Remember, the injuries suffered in rear end collisions may not always be felt immediately following the car accident. Some injuries take hours or even days to become symptomatic. Delayed onset injuries are common in car accidents.

Symptoms of Delayed Onset Injuries

The injuries sustained in an auto or motorcycle accident may not always be apparent at the accident scene or even hours later in the hospital. Obviously, broken bones and lacerations will be immediately noticed and treated.

However, there are some fairly common injuries that occur as a result of accidents which can be unknown and undiagnosed for days or even months.[2] These injuries can be far more serious that the injuries which are readily apparent and easily diagnosed. In fact, they can be fatal.

If you have been involved in an accident and in the weeks following notice any of the following symptoms, it is imperative that you seek medical attention:

1. Headaches;
2. Nausea or vomiting;
3. Fatigue or drowsiness;
4. Difficulty sleeping;
5. Dizziness;
6. Convulsions or seizures;
7. Dilation of one or both pupils;
8. Loss of coordination;
9. Confusion;
10. Memory loss;
11. Slurred speech;
12. Irritability; and
13. Depression.

Even after treatment, many survivors experience long-term health effects from rear-end accidents.

Contact an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer at Jones Law Group

Have you or a loved one been injured in a car accident? Contact an experienced St. Petersburg car accident attorney at Jones Law Group today. When you contact our office we will immediately set an appointment where you will meet your attorney and be provided with their personal contact information.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident caused by the negligence of another, you should immediately call an experienced personal injury attorney in St. Petersburg at Jones Law Group at (727) 571-1333 or reach out through our online contact form. We will evaluate your case for free, and you will never pay us a dime unless we recover compensation for your injuries.