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Injuries and Legal Considerations In Rear-End Crashes
Rear-end collisions are a common variety of car accidents. These crashes have become far more prevalent as drivers text more and more while driving.
Usually, the driver that strikes another car from behind is at fault.
However, this is not a legal certainty – in certain situations, the driver who struck another from behind may have been doing everything she or he was supposed to do and may have had no other options.
Every case is unique. Call (832) 463-1003 to speak to an attorney.
What do I need to consider if I am injured in a rear-end collision?
We tend to think of rear-end collisions as “minor” accidents. Often times people refer to such crashes as simply “fender-benders.”
We improperly assume these accidents involve little property damage and few injuries, if any.
Unfortunately, insurance companies often look at these crashes the same way. They assume that, even if there were any injuries, they are simply minor.
The reality is that rear-end collisions can involve significant property damage, serious and potentially long-term injuries, and can create a host of difficult medical bills and other costs.
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What type of injuries am I at risk for in a rear-end collision?
Rear-end car crashes tend to occur fairly quickly. The car that is struck is usually stopped or traveling at a low rate of speed. The car striking from behind is usually traveling at far higher rate of speed.
As a result, the driver of the car being struck is often unaware or unprepared for the collision. His or her body is usually dealt a large amount of force in the blink of an eye.
The injured driver is usually unable to prepare for the collision, which in turn can exacerbate any injury.
The driver struck from behind can easily sustain what we call “whiplash,” a common injury in rear-end collisions. When the injured driver’s neck is suddenly snapped forward and backward by the force of the collision, the stress causes whiplash.
We should all bear in mind that neck pain from whiplash does not always occur immediately. That means it is critical for you to receive immediate medical attention for this injury, even if neck pain is not readily apparent.
Whiplash can occur even if the striking car is traveling at a low rate of speed. However, if the striking car is traveling at a high rate of speed, other serious injuries can occur, including:
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Brain Injuries
- Concussions
- Broken Bones
- Shoulder, Arm, Neck, and Back Pain
- Facial Injuries
While these are some of the more common injuries in a rear-end crash scenario, this list is not exhaustive.
What should I do if I am injured in a rear-end collision?
First and foremost, you should always seek medical attention as soon as possible after sustaining an injury.
Any injury you have, or may not realize right away you have, needs to be assessed and treated by qualified medical professionals. Failing to seek medical treatment puts you at risk for exacerbating what might appear to be a minor or dormant injury.
This is particularly important when it comes to dealing with whiplash and other neck-related injuries.
You should also contact a qualified attorney to assess your case. He or she can investigate the facts surrounding your claim, review your medical bills, and determine the quality of any potential claim you might have.