Here in the United States, rear-end collisions are the most common of all car accidents. According to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), upward of 1.7 million rear-end crashes occur each year, throughout the United States. Rear-end collisions can result in major damage to your vehicle and serious injuries to you and your loved ones. If you have been involved in a rear-end collision, it is time to speak with a personal injury attorney regarding your legal options for securing compensation.
Negligence Leading to Rear-End Accidents
In order to increase the safety of drivers throughout the nation, the NTSB conducted extensive research in order to pinpoint the leading causes of rear-end collisions. Their studies concluded that an estimated 87 percent of all rear-end collisions occur due to drivers simply not paying attention to the road. Distracted driving is one of law enforcement officials’ biggest concerns in roadway safety.
Distracted driving is defined as any activity that takes your eyes off of the road or your hands off of the steering wheel. Today, one of the most dangerous and common forms of distracted driving is texting while driving. It is important to note that other forms of negligent driving such as drinking and driving, driving over the speed limit, or disregarding traffic signs, can also lead to rear-end collisions. In the aftermath of a rear-end collision, it is extremely important to speak with an attorney immediately regarding the events that led up to the accident and provide your lawyer with any information you have that could indicate that the other driver was operating his or her vehicle in a negligent manner. There can be critical timing issues with collecting and preserving evidence, securing statements from involved parties and eyewitnesses and completing an official police report, so take action as soon as possible after the accident.
Common Injuries Suffered in Rear-End Crashes
Due to the fact that your body rarely has time to brace for a rear-end collision, the injuries involved in these accidents can be incredibly severe. The most common rear-end collision injuries involve the back and spine. From minor whiplash and lower back pain to spinal cord fractures, all injuries to the back and spine should be taken incredibly seriously. If you neglect to seek out proper medical attention, these injuries can lead to paralysis and chronic pain. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are also common in rear-end collisions, even in instances in which the airbag system properly deploys. If you are experiencing symptoms such as a minor headache, dizziness, or slurred speech after a rear-end collision, seek medical attention immediately.
Contact an Appleton Car Accident Lawyer
At Herrling Clark Law Firm, Ltd., our firm fully understands the way in which a car accident can impact a family. The true cost of a car accident can include steep medical bills, loss of work hours, and extensive vehicle repairs. With keeping all of that in mind, we will do everything in our power to ensure you and your family receive the compensation you need and deserve. If you or a family member has been hurt in an automobile crash, call our dedicated Green Bay, WI personal injury attorneys today at 920-739-7366 to schedule a free consultation.
Source:
https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/dr-gridlock/wp/2015/06/08/there-are-about-1-7-million-rear-end-collisions-on-u-s-roads-each-year-heres-how-to-stop-them/