Rear-end collisions are one of the most common types of car accidents reported in Orange County. Even in a low speed rear-end collision, you could suffer painful injuries that impact your life. If you have a challenging case or simply wish to discuss your legal rights, don’t hesitate to contact an Orange County car accident attorney near you.
What Is a Rear-End Accident?
A rear-end car accident describes when the front of one vehicle collides with the back of another. This type of crash often occurs when the driver of the rear vehicle fails to stop the car in time to avoid hitting the back of the car it is following. Rear-end collisions are especially common in heavily congested and high-traffic areas of Orange County, such as the 405. According to the National Safety Council, rear-end collisions accounted for 40% of collisions and 17% of fatal traffic accidents in 2022.
What Typically Causes Rear-End Collisions in Orange County?
Rear-end car accidents in Orange County are typically caused by careless, negligent and reckless motor vehicle drivers. To be negligent means to act with less than the acceptable amount of care, causing harm to others. Common scenarios that result in rear-end collisions include:
- The rear driver engages in distractions such as texting while driving.
- The rear driver tailgates or follows too closely to another driver.
- The rear driver fails to pay attention in stop-and-go traffic.
- The front driver makes a sudden stop or brake-checks another vehicle.
- The front driver cuts off another car (an unsafe lane change).
- Either driver engages in aggressive or road-rage behaviors.
Driver errors such as speeding, drowsy driving, drunk driving and breaking traffic laws increase the odds of rear-end car accidents. However, issues such as mechanical failures and roadway defects can also contribute to these collisions.
Most Common Injuries From Rear-End Car Accidents
Rear-end collisions can occur at low speeds and high speeds, in places such as parking lots or busy freeways. The forces exerted on motor vehicle occupants in a rear-end collision can be significant enough to cause serious injuries, even if the crash appears minor. These injuries may include:
- Whiplash and neck injuries
- Head injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Back injuries
- Disk herniation
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones
- Soft-tissue and joint damage
- Knee injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Cuts and lacerations
Rear-end collisions can be fatal if they occur at high speeds or involve dangerous vehicles, such as 18-wheelers. Whether your level of physical and emotional trauma was minor or severe, you may be eligible for financial compensation.
What Compensation Is Available?
In most rear-end accident cases, the back driver is held liable, or legally and financially responsible. This is because rear drivers have a responsibility to maintain a safe following distance, pay attention to the road and stop in time to prevent collisions. If someone rear-ended you in Orange County, you may be eligible for the following types of financial compensation:
- Medical costs
- Property damage repairs
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Out-of-pocket expenses
Depending on the circumstances, it may be possible to hold the front driver liable for a rear-end collision instead. Discuss your particular case with an OC personal injury attorney to understand who may be at fault and the potential value of your losses.
How Can a Rear-End Accident Lawyer in Orange County Help?
The most effective way to ensure your legal rights are protected and to achieve the best possible case results is by hiring a rear-end car accident attorney in Orange County. A knowledgeable lawyer can take over the claims process for you to put you in the best position for recovery and success. To discuss your case in detail at no cost or obligation, request a free consultation with the lawyers at Bridgford, Gleason & Artinian.