Important Facts About Rear-end Collisions

Though all vehicular accidents are dangerous, rear-end collisions often cause severe, even fatal, injuries. In fact, rear-end collisions account for close to one-third of all motor vehicle accidents. And, it doesn’t take a high-speed crash to result in serious damage. Drivers and passengers can sustain lasting injuries from rear-end collisions at lower speeds, too.

What are the most common rear-end collision injuries?

Even if you are not hurt badly enough to require emergency care, you should always see a doctor after an accident. A medical professional can evaluate your condition and identify injuries that may not be immediately apparent. 

Here are the most common injuries resulting from rear-end collisions:

• Neck injuries (sometimes referred to as whiplash)
• Shoulder injuries
• Concussion
• Closed head or traumatic brain injuries
• Back or spinal cord injuries
• Airbag injuries
• Internal organ damage
• Knee injuries
• Broken bones
• Hand, wrist and arm injuries
• Seat belt injuries
• Facial scarring or disfigurement
• PTSD

What to do in case of a rear-end collision

• Call the police or request an ambulance if you or anyone else is injured.
• Move your vehicle to a nearby safe location, such as the shoulder, and remain there until police arrive.
• Take photos of your vehicle, the other vehicle(s) involved in the accident and the crash scene.
• If there are witnesses, get their contact information.
• If someone asks whether you are hurt, say you will be visiting your doctor to determine the extent of your injuries. Many conditions do not show up until days or weeks after an accident.   
• Do not discuss the accident with the other driver(s) or admit fault to anyone, including the police.
• Contact a reputable accident attorney as soon as possible.

Tips for avoiding rear-end collisions

Traffic safety experts believe 60-90% of rear-end collisions could be prevented by built-in detection and warning systems. However, the majority of cars currently on the road are not equipped with these technologies. Until the situation changes, the following tips can help drivers avoid these dangerous accidents: 

• Avoid distractions such as cell phones, GPS programs, food and other passengers.
• Don’t tailgate. Allow at least two seconds stopping time behind the vehicle in front of you. This equates to approximately one car length for every 5 mph. Allow more stopping time when driving in hazardous weather or road conditions.
• Follow the posted speed limits, slowing down to accommodate heavy traffic, slippery roads and bad weather.
• Don’t stop short or slam on your brakes unless absolutely necessary.
• Obey traffic laws regarding passing, signaling, speeding, etc.
• When passing another vehicle or changing lanes, make sure to maintain a safe stopping distance.
• Don’t drive when you’re tired.
• Never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Make sure your brake lights and turn signals are working properly.

“We may be driving less during the current health crisis, but we also have more on our minds,” said Mark Bernstein of The Sam Bernstein Law Firm. “When you’re driving, keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes and mind on the road. And, if you do have an accident, remember we are only a phone call away. Working remotely, our skilled legal team will protect your rights and help you win the compensation you deserve.”

Michigan accident laws are complicated, but finding the right attorney is simple.

Call 1-800-CALL-SAM today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Sources:

https://www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.dot.gov/files/analyses20of20rear-end20crashes20and20near-crashes20dot20hs2081020846.pdf

https://www.ntsb.gov/news/events/pages/rear-end_collision_prevention_technologies.aspx

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/

https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/whiplash-injuries-basics-32286.html