Rear End Collisions in Texas

Dallas Rear-End Accidents Attorney

Rear-end collisions are one of the most common types of motor vehicle accidents, and they happen all too often in Dallas. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that around one-third of all traffic accidents are rear-end collisions. Between 2012 and 2015, nearly half of all two-vehicle accidents were rear-ended crashes, and more than 1,700 deaths occurred due to rear-end collisions.

According to the NHTSA, driver error is the leading cause of vehicle crashes, such as rear-end collisions. Driver errors are responsible for approximately 94 percent of all traffic accidents. As such, it is important for drivers to always stay alert and cautious on the road to reduce their risks of being involved in an accident.

What is a Rear-end Collision?

A rear-end collision is an auto accident when one vehicle unexpectedly strikes the back of another vehicle from behind. Rear-end collisions can cause significant damage to both vehicles and injuries to their occupants. These types of crashes are some of the most common, and studies have shown that they’re the most deadly type of highway crash.

What Causes Most Rear-end Collisions?

The majority of rear-end collisions are caused by driver negligence. Commonly encountered negligent behaviors include distracted driving, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, drowsy or fatigued driving, speeding, tailgating (following too closely), and aggressive driving or road rage. In some cases, mechanical failure or inclement weather can also contribute to rear-end accidents. A driving mistake – like hitting the gas pedal instead of the brake – can also potentially lead to a rear-end crash.

The most common cause of rear-end collisions is driver inattention or distraction. When a driver fails to pay attention to the road ahead or becomes distracted by a mobile phone, passengers, or other distractions, they may not notice when the vehicle in front of them stops or slows down.

What are the Main Causes of Rear-end Crashes?

In addition to driver error, the following are causes or factors that can contribute to rear-end collisions include:

• Following too closely: Drivers who tailgate the vehicle in front of them have less time to react to sudden stops or slowing traffic.
• Speeding: The faster a vehicle travels, the longer it takes to stop, increasing the risk of a rear-end collision.
• Poor weather or road conditions: Rain, snow, and ice can reduce visibility and traction, making it harder to stop quickly.
• Brake failure: In some cases, rear-end collisions may be caused by a malfunctioning brake system.
• Driver impairment: Drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol or who are fatigued may have slower reaction times and impaired judgment, making them more likely to cause a rear-end collision.

Who Is at Fault for a Rear-End Collision?

As a driver, you must maintain a safe distance from the vehicles ahead of you and be aware of your surroundings. This includes being prepared for sudden stops in congested traffic conditions and slowing down or stopping when necessary.

Generally, if a rear-end collision occurs, the driver at the back of the line is held responsible due to the failure to provide enough space between the vehicle and the one in front. That said, there are exceptions where both drivers could assume liability for an accident.

For example, in cases where the lead car suddenly slams on its brakes without warning, it can be proven that the rear driver did not have enough time to adjust their speed accordingly. A thorough investigation must be carried out in these scenarios before determining fault.

However, in rear-end collisions, fault is not always clear-cut. In some cases, the driver in the front may be partially or even completely at fault for the accident. This could occur if the lead driver cuts somebody off or fails to use a turn signal as any reasonably prudent motorist would. Similarly, if the lead driver slams on their brakes, causing the following driver to collide with them, they may be considered negligent.

In Texas, an unavoidable accident is any crash not caused by any party involved – such as when a deer enters the roadway and causes a rear-end collision. While these accidents may be out of anyone’s control, it is still important to consult an experienced car accident attorney to establish fault in your particular case. With their help, you can gain clarity and peace of mind regarding who is liable for any damages incurred.

What are the most common injuries in rear-end collisions?

Rear-end collisions are some of the most common types of car accidents. While they may not always be the most severe, they can still result in serious injuries that can have lasting effects. That’s why it’s important to understand the most common injuries associated with rear-end collisions.

Whiplash

Whiplash is one of the most recognizable and common injuries associated with rear-end collisions. It occurs when a person’s head is forcefully jolted back and forth, stretching the neck muscles, tendons, and ligaments beyond their normal range of motion. Symptoms of whiplash can include pain and stiffness in the neck, headaches, dizziness, numbness or tingling in the arms and hands, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.

Back Injuries

Back injuries are also fairly common following a rear-end collision. Common back injuries include sprains and strains of the muscles and ligaments and herniated discs that can cause pain down the arms and legs. Herniated discs can also cause numbness, tingling, and weakness in the extremities.

Concussion

A concussion can occur when a person experiences a blow to the head or body hard enough to disrupt brain function. Symptoms may include headache, nausea, confusion, memory loss, cognitive issues, and even vision changes. If left untreated, concussions can become long-term issues.

Internal Organ Damage

Internal organ damage is another risk associated with rear-end collisions. Common injuries include broken ribs, which can lead to punctured or bruised lungs that can require hospitalization or even surgery in some cases. Other internal organ injuries can include lacerations of the spleen or liver and bruising of the kidneys.

It’s important to be aware of the potential risks associated with any type of car accident. Rear-end collisions can lead to both short-term and long-term health complications if proper medical attention isn’t sought. Be sure to see a doctor following any kind of collision to ensure your safety and health.

Rear-end Collisions and Comparative Negligence

In Texas, rear-end collisions can have multiple parties found to be negligent for the incident. Under modified comparative negligence law, the fault is distributed among each party, and compensation is reduced accordingly. For example, if your fault amounts to 20% and the total damages are $200,000, you will receive only $160,000 in compensation.

To recover damages following a rear-end crash, you must show evidence of another driver’s negligence as a proximate cause of your injury. Additionally, you must prove that they did not act as a person of reasonable and ordinary prudence under similar circumstances.

It is important to note that if your negligence is found to be greater than 50%, you are no longer entitled to any compensation under Texas law. Therefore, it is important to understand your rights and legal options should you be involved in a rear-end collision.

Damages in Dallas Rear-end Collisions

If you’ve been in a rear-end car accident in Dallas, you may be entitled to compensation for damages. While it’s true that many rear-end collisions are minor “fender benders,” they can also cause severe injury. Common injuries resulting from rear-end crashes include neck injuries such as issues with the cervical spine and neck, brain injuries, broken bones, back injuries, spinal cord injuries, and chest injuries.

In cases where the crash did indeed lead to damage and injury, victims have the right to seek payment for medical care and treatment, both past and future, nursing and personal care, income and benefits, reduced quality of life, and loss of enjoyment of life, disfigurement and disability, impairments, pain and suffering due to physical, mental, or emotional distress.

Unfortunately, however, recovering this compensation isn’t always easy. You need to be able to prove that the car accident caused your injuries and the damage you sustained as well. It’s important to seek medical attention immediately after the crash and thoroughly document all evidence of your claim.

Having a car accident lawyer on your side can help make your case much stronger. They can gather evidence proving fault, negligence, and liability, increasing your chances of recovering full compensation for your damages.

How Can an Experienced Dallas Rear-End Collision Attorney Help Me?

A qualified Dallas rear-end collision lawyer will ensure you receive full and fair compensation for your injuries and other damages from the accident. This includes assessing the extent of your injuries and fighting to reimburse your medical expenses, lost wages, property damages, pain and suffering, and more. A good attorney will also help guide you through the legal process—from filing a claim to going to court if necessary—ensuring your rights are protected.

Don’t Wait – Contact a Dallas Rear-End Accident Attorney Today

No matter how minor or severe your injuries from a rear-end collision may be, it’s important to seek legal counsel immediately after the accident. An experienced Dallas rear-end collision attorney can ensure your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve for your losses. Don’t wait – contact the qualified attorneys at Genthe Law Firm today at 214-957-0898.