While rear-end crashes are not considered the most dangerous type of accident, they can still result in severe injuries and even death. Crash data from 2021 shows that 17.9% of fatal accidents resulted from a rear-end crash. The death total in those accidents was 3,600.
Of course, not all rear-end collisions are serious. For example, if the vehicles involved were driving slowly, the resulting damage might only be likened to a fender bender. However, if the vehicles were driving fast or the car struck was stationary, it could result in more severe injuries.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a rear-end crash, you may be entitled to compensation that can help cover your losses. At Crossen Law Firm, our Indianapolis rear-end accident attorneys are dedicated to helping those who have been injured in collisions. We understand the emotional, physical, and financial toll an accident can have on your life and are here to help.
If you’ve been injured in a rear-end crash, contact us online today to speak to one of our legal experts.
Common Causes of Rear-End Accidents
Rear-end crashes can happen for many reasons. However, there do tend to be certain factors that contribute to these kinds of accidents happening more often, which include:
- Tailgating or following cars too closely
- Speeding and reckless driving
- Not leaving enough space between cars when the roads are slick and wet
- Any form of distracted driving
- Changing lanes without checking that the path is clear
- Drinking and driving
The chances that the above driving behaviors will cause a rear-end crash increase when traffic is congested. Tailgating or distracted driving during rush hour, for example, is more likely to lead to a rear-end collision. However, these accidents can happen at any time of day, no matter how bad the traffic is. It’s important to always drive with caution to avoid causing a collision.
What Are the Most Common Rear-End Accident Injuries?
Rear-end car accident injuries can range from minor to serious, depending on the impact of the accident. For example, a minor back injury from a rear-end car accident, such as a tweaked back muscle, might occur after a minor fender bender. On the other hand, the back injury could be more severe if the rear-end accident occurred at higher speeds, such as a herniated disc or even a spinal cord injury.
Some of the most common injuries we tend to see as a result of rear-end crashes include:
- Whiplash: Whiplash and other neck injuries are very common in rear-end collisions. When a vehicle is struck forcefully from behind, it can cause the body, and particularly the neck, to whip violently back and forth, which can cause chronic pain and strained neck muscles.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Head injuries are also prevalent in rear-end collisions as the force from the impact can cause you to hit your head on the steering wheel, dashboard, or other parts of the car. This can lead to serious damage to the brain, such as contusions or hematomas.
- Herniated Discs: As mentioned above, back injuries are also quite common in rear-end crashes, and herniated discs are one of the more specific back injuries that can occur. A herniated disc occurs when one of the discs in your spine bulges or slips out of place.
- Spinal Fracture: A spinal fracture is one of the more severe injuries that can result from a rear-end crash. When a fracture in the spine occurs, it increases the risk of severe spinal cord damage and instability, which can affect you long-term.
- Back Sprains: It is also very common for you to tweak or sprain your back muscles in an accident. While this seems like a minor injury, back sprains can be painful and debilitating, especially if they result in muscle spasms.
What Should You Do After a Rear-End Crash?
If you’ve been injured in a rear-end collision, your number one priority should be your health and safety. Thus, it’s important that you call 911 and request emergency medical services to have your injury checked out. It’s also important to ensure the police arrive so an official police report can be filed, as this will serve as crucial evidence that can help when you file a personal injury claim.
If possible, you should also gather additional evidence from the scene of the accident, such as photos or videos of what happened. The more evidence you have to support your claim, the more likely you are to be awarded the full and fair settlement you deserve for your injuries and other damages.
In addition to gathering evidence, you must contact a lawyer following the accident. While you may be entitled to compensation, there is no guarantee that the insurance company involved will award you the full amount you are owed. A lawyer can defend your rights, help you build a strong case, and handle negotiations with the insurance company to ensure they award you the highest settlement possible for all of your pain and suffering.
Consult an Indianapolis Rear End Collision Lawyer
If you were injured in a rear-end crash due to someone else’s negligence, you have the right to file a claim to recover compensation. At Crossen Law Firm, we have over 20 years of experience fighting for car accident victims. We know what it takes to ensure our client’s rights are protected and will do everything we can to get you the settlement you deserve.
Contact us today or give us a call for a free consultation at (317) 401-8626.
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