Rear-end collisions are one of the more common types of car accidents in Arizona and across the U.S. These crashes can cause serious injuries even at low speeds, such as whiplash, neck and back injuries, and broken bones. While fault for a rear-end collision is usually on the driver who rear-ends the vehicle in front of them, certain factors can affect who is responsible for the accident.
If you were hurt in a rear-end car crash, don’t hesitate to talk to a Phoenix car accident attorney to learn about your right to seek financial recovery. At Silkman Law Firm Injury & Accident Lawyer, we focus exclusively on representing injured accident victims, giving us in-depth knowledge of the laws and procedures that affect your case. You can trust us to vigorously pursue fair compensation and justice for you when you have been hurt due to someone else’s negligence.
When you work with us, your attorney will take the time to get to know you and understand your needs and goals so we can build a case strategy aimed at obtaining the results you need. We’ll keep you updated at every step of the process, and we’ll always be available to talk when you need us.
Let us take the pressure of navigating a legal claim off your shoulders, so you can focus on your treatment and recovery. Contact Silkman Law Firm Injury & Accident Lawyer today for a free initial case review. We’re ready to help.
Why Are Rear-End Collisions So Common?
Rear-end accidents occur more frequently than almost any other type of motor vehicle accident. These crashes are common because drivers tend to follow vehicles too closely or don’t brake in time to avoid a rear-end collision, usually due to distraction or slowed reactions from fatigue or intoxication.
What Is the Most Common Cause of Rear-End Collisions?
According to a study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), most rear-end collisions are caused by distracted driving. The NHTSA study found that driver distraction is either the only cause or a contributing factor in about 87 percent of all rear-end accidents.
Distracted driving behaviors can include the following:
- Cell phone use
- Adjusting the climate control, radio, or other settings
- Eating or drinking
- Reaching around the cabin
- Grooming or applying makeup
- Interacting with passengers or pets
- Daydreaming
Other common causes of rear-end collisions include the following:
- Aggressive driving, including weaving in and out of traffic
- Speeding or driving too fast for weather, lighting, traffic, or road conditions
- Suddenly turning or changing lanes, especially without signaling
- Tailgating
- Impaired driving
- Drowsy driving
- Poor visibility, especially during nighttime
- Poor vehicle maintenance, leading to brake, tire, transmission, or vehicle light failures
- Defective auto parts
- Inexperienced drivers
- Unfamiliarity with the area or traffic patterns, which can cause a driver to be surprised by an unexpected traffic light or intersection
Who Is at Fault for a Rear-End Collision?
The driver in the rear vehicle is usually assumed to be at fault in rear-end collisions. This is because all drivers must leave enough space between their vehicle and the one in front of them, so they can safely slow down or stop when necessary.
However, there are times when the lead vehicle can be at-fault for a rear-end collision. For example, the driver in front may be liable for the accident if they suddenly cut in front of another driver and then brake hard, leaving the following driver little time to slow down to avoid a rear-end collision. The front driver may also be responsible if they delayed maintenance on their vehicle, leading to broken brake lights.
Auto mechanics may have liability for negligent maintenance that contributes to a rear-end collision, while vehicle or auto part manufacturers may similarly have liability for design or manufacturing defects.
How Can Rear-End Collisions Be Avoided?
There are a number of ways drivers can help reduce their risk of being involved in a rear-end collision. For example:
- Make sure your vehicle is cleaned and properly functioning. Regularly clean your front and rear windshields, as well as the rear-view and side mirrors. You should also confirm that your brake lights and turn signals work.
- Regularly check your side and rear-view mirrors when driving, especially when slowing down, turning, or changing lanes.
- Tailgating often causes rear-end collisions when there isn’t enough room to stop. A four-second following distance from the vehicle in front of you is recommended. The distance should be increased in bad weather, low visibility, or poor road conditions.
- Always use your turn signal to indicate a turn or lane change.
- Remain alert while on the road, and don’t drive while drowsy or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Contact Silkman Law Firm Injury & Accident Lawyer Today
If you have been injured in a rear-end car accident, get the experienced legal representation you need to help you demand compensation from the responsible party. Contact Silkman Law Firm Injury & Accident Lawyer today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. You can only benefit from talking to a knowledgeable rear-end car accident lawyer about your legal options for pursuing financial recovery for the harm and losses you’ve suffered.