Rear-end collisions are the single most common type of accident. They account for one-sixth of all automobile claims – and that adds up to almost 2 million per year. If you have been driving for any length of time, chances are you have been involved in a rear-end collision or almost been involved in one. Why are rear-end collisions so common and what can you do if you have been the victim of one?
There are a multitude of reasons that rear-end collisions are more common than any other type of accident. We live in a society that is always in a hurry. Take a look at rush hour in any major city and you will likely find a sea of bumper to bumper traffic. Even if traffic is crawling, if one car slams on their brakes it can cause a chain reaction of rear-end collisions. If traffic is really flowing and the same thing happens, the result can be a multiple car pile-up all stemming from the initial rear-end collision. Studies show that while be all should adhere to the three second rule when determining how far behind we should be from the car in front of us, most of us don’t. Most of us travel too close to the car in front of us. When something causes the car in front to stop suddenly, the car in the rear simply doesn’t have enough time to stop, causing a rear-end collision. Studies also show that we cannot detect a change in speed of the car in front of us unless the change is about ten miles per hour or more. In other words, if the car in front of us drops its speed by only five miles an hour we may not perceive the deceleration and end up hitting the car.
Road conditions also play a part in rear-end collisions. When the roads are slick, icy or snowy we need more time to react and stop if the car in front of us suddenly brakes. Unfortunately most people don’t allow for that extra distance, causing rear-end collisions. Distracted drivers are also culprits for rear-end collisions. Anything that takes a driver’s eyes off the wheel has the potential to create an accident. If the guy behind you was text messaging while driving when he rear-ended you then it’s no surprise that he couldn’t brake in time to avoid the accident.
If you have been the victim of a rear-end accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. Damages can include not only medical expenses, but time off of work, car repairs and sometimes pain and suffering as well. Contact an experienced California personal injury lawyer if you would like to have your case evaluated by a professional. Only an experienced attorney can tell you whether or not you have a viable personal injury claim.
If you have been involved in a car accident and would like an experienced attorney to evaluate your case, contact the law offices of Ledger & Associates at 1-800-300-0001 or visit us at www.ledgerlaw.com.
