Rear-end collisions are very common in California. Injuries at rear-end street intersections, at traffic lights, or on freeways occur when traffic slows down and drivers are not paying attention. Being struck from behind is painful and traumatic. Contact our skilled rear-end accident lawyers for expert help if it happens to you.
In most rear-ending claims, the driver of the car approaching from behind is at fault. Our experienced California car accident lawyers have decades of experience handling all types of car accidents, including rear-end collisions.
These accidents could result in injuries ranging from minor strains and sprains to paralysis or even death. You may be entitled to receive significant compensation. Get in touch now for a free consultation. We have a 99% success rate and can win for you.
California Rear End Car Accident Lawyer
Common Causes of Rear-End Accidents
Here are some of the most common causes of rear-end accidents in California:
➤ Distracted driving: This refers to a driver not paying full attention to the road. It usually involves using a cell phone. Drivers are also distracted by talking to passengers, adjusting the radio, and more. (See law: California Vehicle Code 23123.5 – distracted driving.)
➤ Aggressive driving: Car accidents are often caused by aggressive driving. This can involve tailgating, speeding, or following other vehicles too closely. Sometimes drivers who cut in front of another vehicle could also cause a rear-end collision. (See law: California Vehicle Code 21703 – following distance.)
➤ Unsafe speed: Operating a car at an unsafe speed is not restricted to driving over the posted speed limit. Motorists must adjust their speed to traffic, weather, and roadway conditions. Failing to do so could cause a driver to be unable to stop in time to avoid a collision. (See law: California Vehicle Code 22350 – speeding.)
➤ Driver fatigue: Sleepy drivers also cause many back-end collisions. Motorists who doze off or fall asleep at the wheel, even for a few seconds, could cause a devastating accident.
Here are some examples of situations that lead to collisions:
A truck driver on the freeway falls asleep at the wheel and cannot stop in time to avoid a collision.
Colliding with the back of another vehicle stopped at a red light due to inattention.
Driving too fast for rainy conditions, unable to stop in time to avoid hitting someone in front.
A person under the influence of alcohol or drugs cannot judge speed and distance due to their impairment, causing collisions.
Injuries in Rear-End Collisions
When we picture rear-end collisions, we often think of minor fender-benders. However, our car accident attorneys also represent clients who have suffered severe damage in rear-end collisions. Here are some of the most common injuries sustained:
➤ Whiplash: One of the injuries most commonly associated with rear-end collisions is whiplash, which is an injury to the soft tissues of the neck. The tendons and ligaments in the area could become strained because of the force of the collision causing the head to whip back and forth. It could result in chronic pain and disability.
➤ Back injuries: Lower and upper back injuries are common in car accidents. In severe or high-speed collisions, severe spinal injuries that result in paralysis could occur. Even with back strains or broken vertebrae, the road to recovery can be long, painful, and costly.
➤ Traumatic brain injuries: When occupants of a vehicle strike their head against the car’s interior or hit their head against the windshield, severe head injuries could occur, causing damage to the brain. Traumatic brain injuries have the potential to cause lasting physical as well as behavioral and cognitive issues.
➤ Bone fractures: A rear-end collision could cause bones in the face, arms, or even leg to break. While bone fractures are not typically life-threatening, they could take time to heal. Victims may also need physical therapy and other treatments to recover fully, which could all become costly.
If you are injured in a rear-end accident, we can secure compensation to cover your medical bills.
Fault and Liability in Rear-End Collisions
Typically, the driver approaching from behind is at fault in a back-end collision. This is almost always the case. Drivers have to yield to the vehicle in front and pay attention to traffic and road conditions.
There are exceptional situations when the driver in front can be found liable. For example, if the driver in front stopped abruptly without cause, was intoxicated, or if the brake lights in the car weren’t working, they might be at fault.
In most cases, you will file a claim against the at-fault party’s insurance policy. But insurance companies will fight to pay out as little as possible. As a result, the insurance company will often dispute fault and liability. Working with an attorney is the best way to handle a stubborn insurance company.
If you have been rear-ended, contact our attorneys and follow the tips on this page.
Damage To A Vehicle Hit From Behind
Collisions with the back of your car can cause serious damage. You will need to get it checked as soon as possible.
Such an accident might compromise the structure or functionality of your car. It could even make it unsafe to drive. Common issues caused by rear impacts include:
➤ Electrical problems: The crash may damage your brake lights. In other cases, the impact could disrupt any other vital electrical systems in your car.
➤ Misaligned wheels: Being rear-ended can misalign your wheels and damage the steering column. Driving with damaged steering can be very dangerous.
➤ Trunk issues: An accident could damage the trunk and fastening mechanism. This could make the trunk unusable or cause it to fly open without warning.
Your accident lawyer will fight for compensation for such property damage with the at-fault party’s insurance company.
Rear-End Car Accident Statistics
Every year, the number of crashes occurring on roads across the U.S. is shocking. We have assembled statistics showing the number of people injured in a rear-end collision every year.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there are more than 5.25 million car accidents in the U.S. every year. Of all accidents, 29% were rear-ending accidents.
That 29% equates to more than 1.5 million collisions every year.
Rear-end wrecks cause more than 1,700 fatalities and 500,000 injuries annually.
An investigation carried out by the National Transportation Safety Board concluded that distracted driving causes up to 87% of rear-end crashes, a problem that is only getting worse.
These collisions are common on California roads, and many injured victims suffer severe and lasting impacts. If someone has run into the back of you, contact a rear-end accident lawyer to take action. A skilled accident lawyer will ensure the at-fault party’s insurance company pays up.
Rear-End Auto Accident FAQs
We are here to answer any questions you have about filing a lawsuit for a rear-end car crash. To some people, taking legal action is daunting. But it does not have to be.
Our team will handle all parts of your case. We will fight for you while you focus on getting better. But we know that you will have questions. We answer some of the most commonly asked questions below.
If you need to know more before signing with us, please do not hesitate to ask us anything. We are here to help, and all initial case reviews are free.
In most cases, the driver approaching from behind causes the collision. However, there are some exceptions. Contact a rear-end attorney at Bisnar Chase for a free case review.
Even minor injuries can have an impact on your life. We advise all crash victims to get checked out by a medical professional as soon as possible. Next, contact a lawyer to find out if you have a case.
Bisnar Chase is a personal injury law firm that helps plaintiffs. We do not handle defense cases. Our team focuses on fighting for compensation for injury victims.
The statute of limitations for rear-end crash claims is two years. But we advise contacting an attorney as soon as possible.
Every case is different. We settle some in weeks, but others may take months or years. Cases that go to trial always take longer. But we will resolve your claim with the right outcome as soon as possible.
What To Do After a Collision
A car crash of any kind can leave you shaken and hurt, whether it is a sideswipe collision or an intersection incident. A rear-end crash can be especially brutal. You have little chance to prepare or brace for impact when the other car approaches from behind.
When you have been hit, follow the steps below. These steps can help improve your chances of a speedy recovery and lawsuit success.
1. Get to safety if you can move safely. If not, wait for emergency services.
2. Call the police.
3. Exchange details with the other driver if you are able to. Ensure you or someone you know gets the at-fault driver’s vehicle plates, a picture of their license, and insurance details.
4. Collect evidence. This will help prove liability for a later lawsuit. Take pictures of the cars, injuries, skid marks, and anything else relevant.
5. If you do not require emergency treatment, get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible. Do so even if you only suffered minor injuries or do not think you were hurt. Some injuries, such as whiplash aftereffects, can kick in days or weeks after a crash.
6. Call a trusted attorney.
Working with a rear-end collision attorney at Bisnar Chase has several benefits. Our team will provide guidance and full-service representation on everything. Call us now for free to find out how we can help you.
What is a Rear-Ending Case Worth?
The value of a rear-end car accident claim will depend on the specifics of your incident. Many factors will impact the amount of money we can recover for you. These include:
Pain and suffering
The severity of harm and damage
Medical Bills
Lost Wages
Treatments and ongoing care
Property damage
The amount of compensation you can win will depend on the level of pain and suffering you have endured and the financial hits you have taken due to the crash.
Dealing with the insurance company can be an uphill battle when you suffer an injury in a car accident. They will often try any tactics possible to lowball you. You need an attorney on your side.
We have decades of experience winning against insurance companies. Whether negotiating a settlement or securing a jury verdict at trial, our team will hold the at-fault driver accountable and win for you. We have won more than $750 million for our clients. That number includes many multi-million car accident injury claims.
No Win No Fee Rear-End Collision Lawyers
Filing a lawsuit can be daunting. Above all, many people fear the costs of hiring a personal injury lawyer. But when you deal with Bisnar Chase, you do not have to worry about that.
Our injury lawyers offer a no win, no fee promise and free initial consultation. After a car accident, you can call us for legal advice with no charge and no obligations.
When you decide to sign with us, we will advance the costs needed to win your case. If we do not secure a settlement or verdict for you, you do not owe us anything. Call us today for a free consultation to learn more.
Contact an Experienced CA Rear-End Accident Attorney Near Me
If you or a loved one suffered an injury in a rear-end collision, the experienced California car accident lawyers at Bisnar Chase are ready to protect your rights and hold the at-fault parties responsible.
We will analyze the facts and evidence in your case, help you determine your case’s value, and leave no stone unturned when it comes to helping you secure maximum compensation for your losses.
We work on a contingency fee basis, w you don’t pay us any upfront fees or costs unless we win compensation for you. You can also check out our other car accident practice areas if you have been involved in an accident.
Get in touch with a rear-end accident lawyer at Bisnar Chase today. Call us at (800) 561-4887 to schedule a comprehensive and free case evaluation. You can also send us an email or use our website live chat.
