According to the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration, 29% of all motor vehicle accidents are rear-end collisions. Despite their common nature, many people drastically underestimate the harm that these accidents can cause. Accident victims can be left with whiplash, neck, and back injuries that are painful and impede their ability to work or enjoy life.
If someone else’s careless behavior caused a rear-end accident, you deserve to be fairly compensated for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses. An experienced Dallas car accident lawyer from Mathias Raphael PLLC Accident & Injury Lawyers can demand the compensation you deserve.
Common Causes of Rear-End Accidents
Many factors can contribute to rear-end accidents, including:
Following too closely – Drivers are required to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of them. If they follow too closely, they may not have adequate space or time to stop to avoid a collision if the vehicle in front of them suddenly stops.
Speeding – Drivers who travel above the posted speed limit or too fast for conditions impair their ability to stop quickly if traffic flow suddenly changes, increasing the likelihood of a rear-end accident.
Distractions – Drivers who are texting, using their cell phones, or otherwise engaging in distracting activities may fail to notice a vehicle in front of them that has suddenly stopped or slowed.
Road conditions – Drivers must adjust their driving to account for road and weather conditions. Negligent drivers may drive too fast for the conditions or drive during inclement weather when visibility is poor.
For an auto accident lawyer to recover compensation for their client after a rear-end accident, they must be familiar with traffic laws and be able to show the other driver was at fault.
Who Is At Fault for a Rear-End Accident?
In most rear-end accidents, the rear driver is found at fault. This is because all drivers are required to maintain a safe distance between them and other vehicles. This ensures that even if a driver in front suddenly stops or brakes, the rear driver will have enough time and space to stop to avoid a collision. In the event of an accident, the rear driver may be found to have violated this rule and acted negligently.
However, there are some instances when the lead driver may be at fault for a rear-end accident, including when the accident is due to:
Broken brake lights – When a driver has broken tail lights, other drivers do not know when they are braking and cannot adjust their driving accordingly.
Mechanical malfunctions – Vehicle owners are responsible for ensuring their vehicles are safe to drive. If a mechanical malfunction causes the vehicle to stop on the road suddenly, they may be found at fault for a resulting rear-end accident.
Illegal maneuvers – Aggressive drivers who cut into traffic or weave through lanes without signaling may be found at fault for motor vehicle accidents.
Reversing – A driver may have been reversing into the roadway from a home or parking space when they cause a rear-end accident.
Because liability is not always clear in rear-end accidents, it is important to consult with an experienced car accident lawyer after an accident. A Dallas personal injury lawyer can explain your legal rights and options.
Contact Our Car Accident Lawyers for Legal Guidance and Representation
If you were injured in a rear-end accident, contact Mathias Raphael PLLC Accident & Injury Lawyers, your dedicated Dallas rear-end accident attorney, for a free, no-obligation case review. Call (214) 307-8387 or reach out online to schedule your free consultation.
