St. Louis Car Accident Lawyer Examines Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end collisions are a frequent occurrence on U.S. roads and highways. They do not usually cause fatalities, but can cause significant property damage and personal injury. It is a common assumption that the driver who runs into the lead car is the one who is responsible for the accident, but this is not always the case. Consult a St. Louis car crash attorney to help you determine who is at-fault if you have been involved in a rear-end collision.

Rear-End Collision Statistics

Rear-end collisions are the most common type of car accident. According to the Insurance Information Institute, in 2013, there was a total of 5,687,000 accidents. 32% of these car accidents were rear-end collisions. The majority of rear-end collisions are caused by a vehicle that is following too closely and 90% of drivers are distracted at the time of the accident. While most rear-end collisions do not result in fatalities, they often cause severe injury.

Causes of Rear-End Collisions

There are many reasons why rear-end collisions happen, including:

• following too closely
• distracted driving
• drunk driving
• wet or icy roads
• potholes and road debris
• avoiding animals or pedestrians in the road
• speeding
• looking at accidents
• faulty break lights
• vehicle breakdowns

Injuries Caused by Rear-End Collisions

Whiplash is a frequent injury resulting from rear-end car accidents. Whiplash causes the neck and head to violently snap back and forth. This motion can cause damage to the spine and the discs of the vertebral column, causing extreme pain. The damage caused by whiplash may take months or years to heal completely. Other injuries you may have after a rear-end collision are:

• back injuries
• face and head injuries
• seatbelt injuries

After a rear-end collision, you should receive medical care, even if you do not feel any pain immediately after the accident. Symptoms of whiplash and back injury may be delayed and may not present themselves right away. Medical help should be sought so that any permanent damage can be avoided.

Consult a St. Louis Car Accident Lawyer

There may be minimal damage done to your car; however, this does not mean there is not significant personal injury. Rear-end car accident injuries can take some time to fully develop. At The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C, we will fully investigate the scene of your accident to discover critical evidence that is needed to build a solid case against the negligent party. We will help you recover the maximum compensation so you can pay your medical bills and other losses.

For a free consultation, call The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. at (314) 361-4242.