Scottsdale Rear End Accident Attorney

How Common are Rear End Car Accidents?

According to the Insurance Information Institute, rear-end collisions accounted for approximately 33 percent of car crashes in year 2015. That year, drivers caused 2.1 million rear-end crashes resulting in 2,203 fatalities and 556,000 injuries. In addition to the physical and emotional injuries caused by rear end car accidents, property damage claims can also have the potential to total thousands of dollars, even in a low-impact rear end collision.

What Causes a Rear End Collision?

A rear end traffic accident occurs when one vehicle strikes another vehicle from the rear. The collision may occur when the vehicle in front stops at a red light or traffic light. However, rear impact collisions also occur when a driver slows down to make a turn or slows down for traffic. A vehicle does not need to be stopped to be hit from the rear.

The most common cause of rear-end automobile collisions is driver inattention. Common reasons why a driver may not stop before colliding with another vehicle include:

Following too closely (tailgating)
Vehicle stops suddenly
Impaired driving (drunk driving or drugged driving)
Driving too fast for conditions at hand
Distracted driving (texting while driving, reaching for an object, eating, adjusting vehicle controls, etc.)
Faulty brake lights
Drowsy or fatigued driving
Reckless driving or excessive speed

In most cases, the auto accident is the fault of the rear driver. However, insurance companies may argue that the front driver stopped dangerously thereby causing the crash or contributing to the cause of the crash. The insurance provider wants to prove that the rear driver is not 100 percent at fault to decrease the value of a claim. An experienced Scottsdale rear end accident attorney can help gather evidence to prove the accident victim was not responsible for the crash.

Proving Fault In a Rear End Collision Case

Most accidents involving a rear end collision are the fault of the driver who collided with another vehicle. However, the insurance adjuster may try to blame the crash on the victim. Proving fault in rear end auto accidents is critical so that the victim can recover compensation for his or her injuries. To prove the rear end driver caused the crash, a car accident attorney may use evidence including:

Traffic Violations — Was the other driver charged with a traffic violation such as following too closely or driving too fast for conditions at the time?
Eyewitness Statements — Eyewitness testimony can be very persuasive for jurors.
Physical Evidence — In addition to witness statements and physical evidence from the vehicles, obtaining evidence from the accident scene is also important. Evidence including videos, photographs, and skid marks can assist an expert in reconstructing the accident.

Our law firm works with experienced professionals who investigate auto accidents. Rear end traffic accidents can be difficult to prove, especially when there are multiple drivers involved. Our rear end accident attorney understands the importance of obtaining evidence that proves fault in rear end accident claims. Therefore, this law office works quickly to identify the responsible driver and gathers evidence to prove liability.

Accident Injuries in Rear End Crash Claims

Many insurance companies fight accident claims for rear end collision accidents because they claim these crashes do not cause significant injuries. Companies also allege that many of the soft tissue injury claims are false because soft tissue injuries can be difficult to prove. However, crashes caused by rear collisions can cause traumatic and severe injuries that require substantial medical care. In some cases, a crash victim may suffer permanent impairment because of injuries sustained in a rear-end accident.

Common Injuries Victims Sustain from Being Rear Ended May Include:

Whiplash – Whiplash is one of the most common injuries in rear impact crashes. The impact of the rear end collision causes the head to whip from front to back violently. The sudden whipping motion can cause severe tearing and damage to the soft tissues, ligaments, and muscles in the neck and/or shoulders. The result is chronic pain and decreased mobility. While some cases of whiplash heal with time, rest, and medication, some victims suffer permanent damage that can prevent them from working or performing routine tasks.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) – Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and other head injuries are also common injuries in a rear end traffic accident. Victims should seek immediate medical assistance if they experience any of the symptoms of a brain injury. A brain injury may not be readily apparent after a crash. Therefore, it is important to seek immediate medical attention after a car accident.
Facial Disfigurement – The victims in these types of car crashes are often violently thrown against the steering wheel, dashboard, headrest, airbag, or windshield. Violently colliding with an item can cause severe damage to delicate facial bones and structure. Immediate medical attention is important to minimize scarring or other disfigurement.
Broken Bones and Fractures – As with any automobile accident, there is always a risk of broken bones or fractures. In a rear-end traffic crash, victims can sustain fractures and broken bones in the hands, feet, ribcage, spine, or skull.
Spinal Cord and Back Injuries – Some injuries may not be immediately known after a crash. The soreness and stiffness in the back may be overlooked as “normal” after an accident. However, symptoms of a back injury can be an indication of a traumatic injury that could result in a permanent disability. It is wise to seek medical attention to rule out an acute injury as soon as possible after an auto accident.

Filing an Injury Claim for Damages

Damages in a rear end car crash can be substantial. Victims may be entitled to receive money for lost wages, medical bills, property damage, and other financial losses. In addition, victims can seek compensation for the physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish caused by a negligent or reckless driver.

Speak With a Scottsdale Rear End Accident Attorney Near You

Amar Esq. PLLC is a rear end collision law firm in Scottsdale, Arizona. At our law office, we focus on providing strong trial lawyer and litigation abilities to ensure our clients’ voice is adequately heard. Whether a matter settles or ends up at trial in front of a jury, we continuously strive to regain the quality and level of life our clients deserve. Contact us at 480-802-8232 to schedule a free consultation.