Causes and Effects of Rear-End Collisions

Monday, September 23, 2019

Causes and Effects of Rear-End Collisions

Written by Malman Law, reviewed by Steve J. Malman.

Some people call them “fender-benders,” but in reality, a rear-end collision can result in serious property damage and injuries. Many people injured in this type of crash have the right to seek compensation from the at-fault driver, though the process is not simple. If you have been in a rear-end crash and believe someone else was to blame, contact a Chicago car accident attorney about your legal options right away.

Causes of Rear-End Accidents

Rear-end accidents can occur for a wide variety of reasons – most of which place fault for the accident squarely on the shoulders of the driver of the vehicle in the back. For this reason, in the vast majority of cases, the person or people in the vehicle in front can typically recover compensation for any losses they incur as a result of the accident. Some specific causes of rear-end accident include:

• Distracted driving
• Speeding
• Following too closely
• Impaired driving
• Driver fatigue
• Texting and driving
• Failing to account for adverse weather conditions
• Brake checking

It’s important to note that not all rear-end accidents are caused by the rear driver, and there are certain cases in which the front driver may be at fault for a rear-end collision. For example, if the driver in the front was operating a vehicle with malfunctioning brake or tail lights, a rear-end accident could potentially be his or her fault. Likewise, if a driver suddenly changes lanes while the vehicle next to him is accelerating, the same may be true. 

Common Injuries and Losses

Rear-end accidents are capable of causing severe damage and serious injuries. This is partially true because the people in the front often have no idea that a crash is about to happen, so they do not have any chance to brace themselves for the collision. Some of the more common injuries that people sustain in rear-end accidents include:

• Whiplash
• Broken bones
• Lacerations
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Burns
• Concussions
• Severe soft tissue injuries
• Spinal cord injuries

These injuries can often translate into significant tangible and intangible losses for people that are involved in rear-end crashes. In many cases, they require medical treatment and are unable to work for weeks or even months after their accident. Fortunately, these and other losses are typically compensable under Illinois law. Some of the specific damages that rear-end crash victims commonly seek include medical expenses, lost income, property damage, physical and emotional pain and suffering, and lost quality of life. You can also receive compensation for permanent disabilities, impairments, or disfigurement. 

Consult with a Chicago Car Accident Lawyer for Free Today

The dedicated legal team at Malman Law helps clients after many types of motor vehicle accidents, including rear-end collisions. We know that even if an accident seems relatively minor, it can still result in serious injuries and losses, and we are on your side. If you have been in an accident, timing is important, and you should not put your legal rights on hold. Call (312) 629-0099 or contact us online for a free case evaluation today.