Rear-End Wrecks

Rear-end wrecks make up a vast majority of car accidents. Drivers are under a duty of care while operating vehicles. The driver that fails to exercise due care while driving is often found to be negligent. Sometimes both drivers are found to have contributed to the accident. When a driver fails to maintain sufficient distance from the car in front of them and is unable to stop in time, resulting in an accident, that driver may be found liable. However, there are instances where liability is not clear and the driver in front may be liable.

Causes of Rear-End Wrecks

The following are common reasons for rear-end wrecks:

Weather. Weather conditions often impact drivers’ abilities to stop their vehicles. Rain, ice, and snow can cause dangerous road conditions leading vehicles to skid and impair their ability to brake. It is imperative that during severe weather conditions, motorists keep a safe distance between themselves and the car in front of them and drive slowly to avoid rear-end wrecks.

Distractions. Texting, talking on a cell phone, and eating food are some ways drivers get distracted from focusing on the road. In many accidents involving rear-end wrecks, the driver of the vehicle is distracted. In traffic, even minor distractions will cause the driver to collide with the car in front due to congestion.

Impairment. When drivers are under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or medication, they risk the ability to act quickly to avoid a collision.

Mechanical Issues. When a driver operates a vehicle that has a mechanical failure, it can impact the driver’s ability to control the vehicle when requiring a sudden stop.

Rear-End Wreck Injuries

Injuries reported by rear-end wrecks may not seem severe. However, these injuries are painful and hard to prove in medical tests. It is important to consult with a physician immediately to treat injuries. Also, a medical provider will document any symptoms and conditions sustained, which can be used to prove liability and damages in your case. Often, physical therapy and trigger point injections are used to treat symptoms. Treatment records are vital to prove damages. The following are common injuries that occur in rear-end wrecks:

  • Whiplash. One of the most common injuries reported in a rear-end wreck is whiplash, which is also referred to as cervical strain. This type of injury occurs when the impact of the collision causes the drivers head to whip back suddenly, causing injuries to the neck, shoulders, and upper back.
  • Soft Tissue Injuries. Soft tissue injuries are sprains and strains in the muscles of the neck, back, and shoulders.
  • Myofascial Injuries. This common injury is caused by pressure on trigger points in muscles.

Liability

Often, the driver that collides from the rear is found liable. It is the duty of drivers to have adequate space in front to be able to stop the vehicle in case the car ahead comes to a sudden halt. However, there are certain instances where the car in front may be found liable. In these instances, it requires a skillful attorney to show the driver’s liability through evidence. The following instances illustrate a scenario where the driver in front may be found liable.

  • Sudden Brake. If the car in front brakes suddenly for no reason, such as to check one’s breaks.
  • Sudden Reversal. If the car in front suddenly begins to reverse.
  • Mechanical Failure. If a driver continues to drive after a flat tire or drives with brake lights that are not functional.

Liability can be proven through witness statements, police reports, and photographs taken at the scene of the accident. It is important to call the police immediately following an accident. Attorneys will also use discovery methods to obtain information about the vehicles involved and their maintenance records.

DC Car Accident Lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King Represent Victims of Rear-End Wrecks

If you were involved in rear-end wreck, the DC car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King have considerable experience in obtaining results and recovering damages for injuries. We will hold the negligent party responsible for your injuries and obtain the compensation you deserve. Located in Washington, DC, we represent clients throughout DC and Maryland. Call us today at 202-331-1963 or contact us online to arrange a free consultation.

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