Rear-End Accidents: Injuries and Common Causes

Rear-End Accidents: Injuries and Common Causes

In 2016 alone, accidents involving transportation were the leading cause of job fatalities in the U.S.A. Many don’t think about it because we tend to get comfortable with this common activity, but driving is one of the most dangerous things we do on a daily basis.  Knowing that, it is probably a good idea to know ahead of time which auto accident injury attorney you would call in the unfortunate event that you would have that need!

Rear-end accidents tend to be very common across the entire nation and typically result from one or a combination of several factors.

With today’s technologically driven world, the presence of smartphones has caused a significant uptick in the number of car crashes over the years. With most activities typically done on a smartphone evolving over the past few years from simply talking, to swiping, sharing, and texting, the distractions have only gotten worse. Also, with smartphones becoming a necessity for not only staying in contact with friends and family, but also for job related activities, drivers may feel like they can accomplish more by multitasking when on the road.  

Not only are phones causing distractions, but drivers are spending more time on the road eating on the go, looking up directions, and adjusting settings on the radio. All of these are common causes of rear-end accidents.  

Faulty brakes or tires can lead to rear-end auto collisions as well. When a driver does not realize their brakes need to be replaced, they are putting themselves and others at risk. Many things can go wrong with the brakes on a car including brake fluid leaks, worn brake pads, and faulty brake cables. Tires with worn tread can also lead to accidents when they rupture or simply cannot grip the road enough to stop in time to avoid a rear-end collision.

In addition, poor weather conditions can lead to accidents. When roads are wet or icy due to rain or snow, cars are much more likely to have trouble stopping in time to avoid a rear-end accident.

You may ask, what kinds of injuries result from these specific types of auto accidents? There are many different types of injuries that can occur, however there are a few that are associated more often with a rear-end collision accident. Whiplash occurs when the head is shifted forcefully forwards and then snaps back, causing injury to the neck. This type of injury is extremely common with even the smallest of rear-end accidents and fender benders. High speed rear-end accidents often result in concussions which can occur when the driver or passenger airbag does not deploy, or if seatbelts are not fastened. Another common injury as a result of a rear-end collision includes shoulder, arm, or back pain.

In order to prevent injury from rear end collisions, take all of these factors into consideration on your next time behind the wheel of a vehicle, and drive safe!

 

Greenberg Law Offices