Rear-end accidents are the most common type of car wreck. All it takes is a few moments of distraction for someone to hit the car in front of them. When the impact is at low speed, many of these accidents are nothing more than fender benders with minor property damage and no injuries to other motorists. However, some rear-end collisions lead to significant property damage and personal injuries such as soft tissue damage, head injuries, and neck or back injuries.
If you have been injured in a rear-end car accident in Wilmington, you may be entitled to recovery. Our trusted car accident attorneys can examine the circumstances of the accident and determine whether the other driver’s negligence led to the accident. We can also identify other potential plaintiffs who may share responsibility for your injuries. Reach out to Doroshow, Pasquale, Krawitz, and Bhaya today to get started.
Causes of Rear-End Collisions
Distracted driving, tailgating, and aggressive driving are among the top causes of rear-end collisions in Wilmington and throughout the state. In almost all cases, the driver in the rear is responsible for this type of wreck. However, there are some instances where the driver in front may be at fault. For example, if the driver in front reverses into another vehicle, they may be liable. In addition, a motorist who has brake lights that are not working could also be responsible for a rear-end wreck.
Tailgating is a top cause of rear-end accidents. Tailgating occurs when a driver follows too closely behind the vehicle in front of them. What constitutes too close depends on the circumstances. The faster the vehicles are moving, the greater the distance necessary to stop. So, estimating a safe following distance depends on the speed of the vehicles. A good rule of thumb is to keep two seconds between the lead vehicle’s rear bumper and the following vehicle’s front. That distance should allow the vehicles to stop without a collision under most circumstances. In heavier traffic or poor weather conditions, increasing that following distance is a wise idea.
Distracted driving is another culprit. So many of today’s drivers fail to focus on the road. Instead, they worry about texting, making phone calls, watching videos, having a snack, drinking coffee, personal grooming, and more. Any of these things can distract them, causing them to look away from the road. Even a few seconds of distraction can lead to a rear-end collision.
Common Injuries From Rear-End Wrecks
Injuries in rear-end collisions in Wilmington range from mild to catastrophic. People may experience scrapes, bruises, lacerations, broken bones, back injuries, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and more.
If a wreck causes the neck to move backward and forward rapidly, it can lead to soft tissue injuries in the neck — a condition known as whiplash. Whiplash is relatively common and frequently occurs in car accidents. It can lead to pain in the neck, back, shoulders, and arms, headaches, muscle spasms, stiffness, dizziness, and vertigo. For many people, the symptoms will resolve with self-treatment. Ice, rest, and over-the-counter pain medications may be enough to treat the issue. However, for more severe cases of whiplash, these treatments are not enough. They may require prescription pain medications, steroid injections, physical therapy, and more.
It is vital to get immediate medical attention after a car accident. The earlier a person seeks care, the more likely they are to have a successful medical intervention. Plus, seeking care is an excellent way to begin documenting injuries.
Work With a Wilmington Attorney After a Rear-End Car Wreck
The aftermath of a car wreck can be overwhelming. You may be in pain, not have use of a vehicle, and unable to return to work. The other party may deny liability, or their insurer may offer a low-ball settlement. Our team can help you. We can provide you with a settlement estimate amount, advise you of liability, and outline case strategies for you. Schedule a consultation with Doroshow, Pasquale, Krawitz, and Bhaya to learn more about rear-end car accidents in Wilmington.