Rear-End Collisions: Causes, Potential Injuries, and the Legal Road Ahead

Knowing what to do legally following a rear-end collision becomes crucial if you have been in a car accident in Chicago. To help you understand, let me present you with a hypothetical situation.

Picture yourself enjoying the wind, listening to your favorite music, and anticipating a delicious dinner at home while out on a drive. At the intersection of Cicero Avenue and 127th Street, you are seated at a red signal.

And then— bam! You were involved in an incident.

This is how rear end collisions occur in an instant. Furthermore, victims are frequently left with not only physical wounds but also legal issues to cope with.

In a case like this, consulting a Chicago car accident lawyer is the first thing you should do. They are the ones who are going to help you out with the compensation and other legal processes.

If you or someone you know has been in a problem like this, this article is for you! So, keep reading this blog until the end, and thank me later!

What Causes Rear-End Collisions?

A rear-end collision happens when one car crashes into the back of another car. These types of accidents are very common and can occur for several reasons. Below are some of the main causes:

1. Distracted Driving

One of the biggest reasons why rear-end collisions occur is distracted driving. generally, this happens when a driver is not paying attention to the road fully. Some common distractions include:

• Texting or using a phone
• Talking to passengers
• Adjusting the radio or air conditioning
• Eating or drinking while driving

When drivers are distracted, they may not notice that the car in front of them has slowed down or stopped. This can result in a crash because they don’t have enough time to react and hit the brakes.

2. Aggressive Driving

Aggressive driving is another common cause of rear-end collisions. This happens when a driver is impatient or in a hurry and drives recklessly. Examples of aggressive driving include:

• Tailgating (following too closely)
• Speeding
• Changing lanes suddenly
• Running red lights or stop signs

When a driver follows another car too closely, they don’t have enough time to stop if the car in front suddenly slows down, increasing the risk of an accident.

3. Poor Weather Conditions

Bad weather can make roads dangerous and increase the chances of a rear-end collision. Conditions such as:

• Heavy rain
• Fog
• Snow or ice

When wet or icy, the road becomes slippery, making it harder for cars to stop quickly. Poor visibility due to fog or heavy rain can also make it difficult for drivers to see what’s ahead, leading to accidents.

4. Mechanical Failures

Sometimes, accidents happen because of issues with the car itself. If a vehicle is not properly maintained, it may develop mechanical problems, such as:

• Faulty brakes
• Worn-out tires
• Engine malfunctions

For example, if a car’s brakes are not working properly, the driver may be unable to stop in time, resulting in a crash.

Common Injuries You Might Face in Rear End Collisions

Even when driving at low speed, rear-end collisions can still happen and cause significant harm to victims. In severe cases, the injuries can be life-threatening.

Common injuries associated with rear-end collisions include:

1. Whiplash

Firstly, one of the most common injuries that one might have in rear-end collisions is a whiplash. This neck injury can happen when the head and neck jerk forward suddenly due to impact. Symptoms include:

• Neck pain
• Stiffness
• Headaches

Whiplash is usually treated with pain medication and physical therapy.

2. Back Injuries

Secondly, a sudden impact can put a lot of pressure on the spine, leading to back injuries. These can range from minor muscle strain to serious spinal cord damage. Symptoms include:

• Back pain
• Difficulty moving
• Tingling or numbness

Treatment may include rest, physical therapy, or surgery for severe cases.

3. Head Injuries

During a collision, a driver or passenger may get injured after hitting their head on the car’s steering wheel, dashboard, or seat. This can lead to injuries such as:

• Cuts and bruises
• Concussions
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)

Additionally, symptoms may include dizziness, nausea, or memory loss. It’s important to see a doctor immediately after a head injury.

4. Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissues include muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Injuries to these parts of the body can cause:

• Sprains or strains
• Swelling and bruising
• Pain and stiffness

Moreover, these injuries are usually treated with rest, ice packs, and pain relief medication.

5. Broken Bones

Finally, the force of impact can also cause fractures, especially in areas like:

• Ribs
• Arms and wrists
• Legs and ankles

Even if you feel fine after an accident, you should see a doctor. Some injuries may not show symptoms immediately but can cause problems later if left untreated.

Steps to Take After Rear End Collision

After a rear-end incident, you must both physically recover and navigate the legal system to get just compensation for your suffering. The procedure entails:

1. Determining Fault: In these kinds of collisions, it is typically presumed that the motorist who rear-ended the other vehicle is at fault. However, there are some examples, such as when the lead car’s brake lights failed or it stopped suddenly without any explanation.
2. Gathering Evidence: Taking photographs of the accident scene, witness accounts, police reports, and medical records are all necessary to create a strong case.
3. Damage Calculation: Compensation encompasses more than just covering medical costs. You may also qualify for future medical expenses, pain and suffering, and lost wages if your injuries require ongoing care.
4. Collaborating with a Lawyer: It can be quite difficult to deal with insurance providers, particularly if they attempt to downplay your claim or deny any responsibility. Negotiations and fighting for the money you are entitled to are handled by an experienced lawyer.

How Can Car Accident Lawyers Help?

Car accidents can be stressful, especially if you’re injured or facing financial losses. A car accident lawyer can help you in many ways, making the legal process easier while ensuring you get the compensation you deserve.

Here’s how they can assist you:

1. Understanding Your Rights

Firstly, you need a car accident lawyer to help you understand what your rights are after suffering an accident.

You might not know your legal rights following an accident. A lawyer will explain your rights to compensation for things like mental upset, medical costs, lost pay, and auto repairs.

2. Investigating the Accident

Secondly, to make a compelling case, auto accident attorneys collect crucial evidence. They gather witness statements, police reports, medical data, and, if necessary, security footage.

Additionally, in order to establish who was responsible for the accident, having this proof is a must.

3. Dealing with Insurance Companies

Thirdly, insurance firms frequently attempt to reject claims or reduce payouts. To guarantee you get a just settlement, a lawyer bargains with them on your behalf. They can contest unjust rulings and are knowledgeable about insurance policies.

4. Calculating Compensation

Accident victims often underestimate the entire cost of their injuries. When determining compensation, a lawyer takes into account not just the immediate medical bills but also future treatment costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and potentially long-term incapacity.

5. Filing Legal Paperwork

Legal processes can be laborious and complex. In order to avoid delays or errors that could harm your case, a lawyer makes sure that all required paperwork is filed accurately and on time.

6. Representing You in Court

Finally, a lawyer will take your matter to court if discussions are unsuccessful. To guarantee the greatest result, they will interrogate witnesses, present evidence, and make arguments on your behalf.

The Legal Road Ahead

Although rear-end crashes may appear simple, the damage they cause can be severe. From navigating the legal system to dealing with injuries, the road can feel intimidating.

Therefore, having a skilled auto accident attorney on your side might make all the difference. A knowledgeable attorney can help you at every stage and make sure you have the assistance and money you require to proceed.

Read Next..

• Who Pays Damages in a Hit-and-Run?
• How To Choose A Car Accident Lawyer?
• How to Get the Most Money From a Car Accident