Rear-End Accidents at Intersections

A rear-end accident occurs when a driver collides with the vehicle in front of them from behind. These accidents typically happen at intersections with red lights, stop signs, or in congested traffic. While many rear-end accidents occur at low speeds, they can also occur at high speeds on highways and other fast-paced roads. Typically, rear-end accidents involve two cars, but they can trigger a chain reaction involving multiple vehicles.

Rear-end car accidents, also known as rear-enders or getting rear-ended, may be caused by a variety of factors. The most common cause is distracted driving, which occurs when a driver is not paying attention to the road ahead. This can happen when the driver is using their phone, eating, applying makeup, or engaged in any other activity that takes their attention away from driving.

In addition to distracted driving, other common causes of rear-end accidents include:

• Following too closely (tailgating).
• Speeding.
• Driving under the influence of drugs.
• Drunk driving, DUI.
• Poorly maintained brakes or tires.
• Defective automotive parts.
• Fatigued driving.
• Failure to yield the right of way.
• Road rage and other forms of aggressive driving.
• “Brake-testing” or another type of sudden and unnecessary stop by the vehicle in front.

Injuries that often result from rear-end accidents include bruises, cuts, whiplash, and traumatic brain injuries. These injuries can become lifetime disabilities or lead to chronic pain. An experienced rear-end accident attorney understands this and will fight relentlessly to collect maximum compensation for their clients.

To avoid causing a rear-end accident, it is important to follow the rules of the road, avoid drowsy driving, exercise caution in inclement weather, minimize distractions while driving, refrain from tailgating or engaging in aggressive driving tactics, avoid checking your phone for any reason while driving, pre-select your playlist or podcast before driving, refrain from eating while driving, and pull over if you need to use your phone. Following these suggestions can potentially save lives, as distracted driving alone accounts for nearly 15,000 deaths in rear-end accidents, highlighting the preventability of these incidents.

While rear-end accidents can happen anywhere, certain locations are more prone to these types of collisions. The most common is intersections with either traffic lights or stop signs. Getting rear-ended while stopped at an intersection or rear-ended making a turn are common hit from behind intersection scenarios. Other hotspots include:

• Highway exits. Rear-end accidents frequently occur when drivers are exiting highways. Often, drivers are traveling at high speeds and suddenly need to stop, and if the driver behind them is not paying attention, a rear-end collision can happen.
• Congested highways. Rear-end crashes are also more common in heavy traffic, where drivers may not have enough space to stop suddenly, and the potential for distracted driving is higher.
• Rear-end accidents caused by "brake checking" are a common scenario discussed in terms of fault. "Brake checking" occurs when the front driver purposely and suddenly applies the brakes to test if the following driver is paying attention. This practice is highly dangerous and makes the person performing it liable for any resulting accidents. While the tailgating driver may contribute to the accident, the act of brake checking complicates the issue of liability due to the reckless behavior involved.

No matter where the crash happened, a skilled rear-end car accident lawyer can investigate the accident and gather important evidence to prove their client’s claim for substantial compensation. 

Car accident lawyers have a wealth of knowledge and experience dealing with insurance companies and the legal system. They can help injured victims navigate the complicated claims process, which can involve extensive paperwork, deadlines, and evidence gathering. If an insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, a car accident lawyer can represent injured victims in court.  

If you have been injured in a rear-end accident, it is important to reach out to a car accident lawyer as soon as possible. Trying to fight insurance companies on your own can be stressful and overwhelming and may result in a reduced or denied payment. With the assistance of an experienced rear-end car accident attorney, you can focus on your recovery and feel confident that your claim is being handled by a skilled and knowledgeable professional with a track record of success. Contact a trusted rear-end car accident lawyer in your area to schedule a free consultation today.