The Bay Area has gotten crowded over the years as more and more people seek opportunities in this diverse, dynamic part of California. With more people on the road in Oakland and the East Bay, that means a greater risk of auto accidents. The lawyers of Bowles & Verna are here to help injury victims hold negligent motorists accountable.
Many auto accidents involve a vehicle being struck from behind. This is known as a rear-end auto accident. Let’s consider the numbers regarding rear-end collisions and why they need to be taken seriously.
Statistics for Rear-End Collisions
According to numbers compiled by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), an estimated 6 million auto accidents occur in the United States each year. Of that number, it’s estimated that 2.5 million are rear-end collisions. This means that 40 percent of all annual auto accidents are rear-end auto accidents.
Reasons Why Rear-End Collisions Occur
There are many reasons why a rear-end collision may occur. Some of the most common ones are as follows:
- Speeding – Driving faster than the speed limit means a much greater likelihood of a read end collision occurring. Shortening your reaction time while increase stopping distance and stopping time is a bad combination.
- Tailgating – It’s crucial to give motorists ahead of you ample room, usually a car length for every 10 miles per hour. Trailing too close almost guarantees a potential rear-end accident.
- Texting While Driving – People who text behind the wheel take their eyes off the road for seconds at a time. At highway speeds, that’s enough time to travel the length of a football field.
- Other Kinds of Driver Distraction – Any kind of action that diverts your attention from the road means a chance of colliding with other vehicles. Avoid distracting yourself when you are driving.
- Issues with Brake Lights – If your brake lights are out or do not function properly, motorists behind you may not realize that you are slowing down. This could spell disaster.
- Brake Defects – Unresponsive and otherwise defective brakes can affect your ability to slow down in a reasonable distance or amount of time. This increases the risk of a crash.
- Poor Weather Conditions – Rain, fog, and other conditions that cause slick roads or poor visibility mean accidents are more likely. Be sure to slow down and remain attentive in such situations.
- Bad Road Conditions – Debris on the road and issues with overall road design can have a negative impact on braking ability and visibility.
Injuries Sustained from Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end auto accidents can cause a wide variety of injuries, from broken bones and lacerations to severe head trauma and brain injuries. Whiplash is the most well-known kind of injury associated with rear-end collisions. This is caused by the sudden movement of the neck. Even at low speeds, whiplash can lead to severe pain, headaches, and issues with mobility.
Holding Negligent Drivers Accountable
If a negligent, reckless, or inattentive driver struck your vehicle from behind, it’s important that you speak with an attorney about holding the motorist accountable in civil litigation. While seeking damages in this lawsuit, you can receive legal compensation for medical bills, damage to your vehicle, and other material losses directly associated with the rear-end collision.
Speak with Experienced Auto Accident Attorneys
For more information about your legal rights and options following a rear-end auto collision, be sure to contact our team of personal injury lawyers today. The legal team at Bowles & Verna will work with you to hold the negligent motorist accountable for their actions.