Rear-End Collision Accident
According to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) there were 1.7 million rear-end collisions on U.S. roads in 2012. The rear-end collision is the most frequent type of automobile accident. The injuries sustained in a rear-end accident can be very serious and even deadly. The NTSB also mentions that many of these rear-end crashes could be prevented with more caution and better technology. Until these changes take place here are some things to know if you are involved in a rear-end collision.
Types of Rear-End Collision
A rear-end accident involves the front of one vehicle colliding with the back of another vehicle. There are two main types of rear-end crashes.
Front vehicle is stationary:
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- Stop light
- Sitting in traffic
- Parked
- Side of the road
The front vehicle would be moving in the other type of rear-end collision.
Speed will also be an important part of determining the severity of a rear-end accident. High speed crashes are more likely to result in serious injury or death. However, low speeds crashes can still result in severe injuries that might include whiplash, headaches or other injuries that develop over time.
Who Is At Fault?
Many people believe that the vehicle that runs into another vehicle will always be at fault. There are situations in which the front vehicle can be held liable for a rear-end collision.
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- Brake lights not functioning
- Disabled vehicle stopped in traffic
- Front vehicle backing into the other vehicle
It is important to work with an experienced attorney when you are involved in a rear-end accident.
Who to Call
If you or some you know have been involved in a rear-end accident it is important to know your rights. The attorneys at Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice and Purtz have over 5o years of experience with personal injury cases. We have six offices located in Southwest Florida. Call us today to set up your appointment for a free consultation.