At the Hollingsworth Law Firm, our Houston auto accident and injury attorneys know that when most people think of read-end crashes in Texas, they think of fender benders—minor collisions between motor vehicles.
The reality is that, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), rear-end accidents account for about 29% of all car accidents with a severe injury, and approximately 1,700 people die annually from injuries in a rear-end collision in the U.S.
Here, we discuss the most common causes of rear-end collisions, the injuries they cause, and how we can help crash victims pursue the damages they incurred from these accidents.
What are the Most Common Causes of Rear-End Accidents in Texas?
Other common causes of rear-end accidents in Texas and nationwide include, but are not limited to:
Distracted Driving: Drivers texting, using a phone, or otherwise distracted are less likely to notice when traffic slows down or stops ahead.
Tailgating: Following too closely behind another vehicle reduces the time and space needed to react to sudden stops or slowdowns.
Speeding: Driving at high speeds reduces the driver’s ability to stop quickly and increases the severity of collisions.
Sudden Stops: Abrupt stops by the lead vehicle can catch the following driver off guard, leading to a rear-end collision.
Impaired Driving: Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs have delayed reaction times and impaired judgment, increasing the risk of accidents.
Driver Fatigue: Tired drivers may have slower reaction times and be less alert to changes in traffic conditions.
Mechanical Failures: Brake failures or other mechanical issues can prevent a driver from stopping in time to avoid a collision.
By understanding these common causes, drivers can take steps to mitigate risks and improve road safety in Texas.
Severe Car Accident Injuries Can Result from Serious Rear-End Collisions in Texas
According to the NHTSA, 85% of neck injuries from car accidents come from rear-end accidents. Unfortunately, these injuries can be catastrophic, leaving accident victims pursuing long-term medical care and taking extended time away from work.
Some of the other most common injuries that occur during rear-end collisions include, but are not limited to:
Whiplash: This is the most frequent injury in rear-end collisions, caused by the sudden jerking motion of the head and neck. It can lead to neck pain, stiffness, and headaches.
Back Injuries: The impact can cause damage to the spine, including herniated discs, fractures, and muscle strains.
Head Injuries: The force of the collision can cause the head to hit the steering wheel, dashboard, or windows, leading to concussions, traumatic brain injuries, or other head trauma.
Chest Injuries: The sudden impact can cause chest injuries, including bruised or broken ribs, especially if the driver or passenger is thrown against the steering wheel or seatbelt.
Shoulder Injuries: The seatbelt’s restraining force can cause shoulder strains, sprains, or even fractures.
Facial Injuries: Airbags deploying or the face hitting the steering wheel or dashboard can cause cuts, bruises, and fractures to the face.
Arm and Wrist Injuries: Drivers often brace for impact by gripping the steering wheel, which can lead to sprains, fractures, or dislocations in the arms and wrists.
Psychological Trauma: Beyond physical injuries, rear-end collisions can also result in emotional and psychological distress, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
In a rear-end accident with injuries, the victim can recover various damages to compensate for economic and non-economic losses. Economic damages typically include medical expenses, such as hospital bills, rehabilitation costs, and future medical care, as well as lost wages from time off work and loss of earning capacity if the injuries affect the victim’s ability to work long-term. Non-economic damages cover pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life due to the injuries. We can help you pursue the negligent driver for your complete damages, starting with a free consultation.
Contact Our Lawyer at Hollingsworth Law Firm Today
Our skilled bilingual personal injury lawyers and support staff represent clients throughout Texas on a contingency basis, so you never pay any legal fees unless we win your case.
If you are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve, so are we. Let us take the lead.
About The Author
Steve Hollingsworth
Steve Hollingsworth is a seasoned trial attorney with extensive experience across Texas. After beginning his career as a felony prosecutor, Steve went on to represent major insurance companies before focusing on helping individuals injured in car, motorcycle, trucking accidents, and premises liability cases. Founder of his own firm, Steve is committed to providing personalized, client-focused legal representation to ensure justice for those he serves.
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Testimonials
Awesome Attorney
I was a client of Steve Hollingsworth. I was totally satisfied with his representation of me. He was very helpful in answering all my questions and always kept me updated on the status of my case. I am very happy with the settlement of the case and would highly recommend him to anyone looking for legal advice.
Rossana Former Client
Houston’s Best Consultation!
Steve was just great! Very easy to work with, communicates really well and most importantly sets realistic expectations. He is very straightforward and promptly responds to all your questions. I would definitely recommend Steve and would not hesitate to hire him in the future.
Anonymous Former Client
Very Accommodating and Caring
Steve and his assistant Kristina takes care of all my requests right away. Steve personally calls on issues and keeps me updated on the developments of the case. Got me a great settlement! Would highly recommend!
Mila G. Former Client
Rear End Case
Mr. Hollingsworth was an excellent lawyer in my case. He kept me up to date and informed through the whole process. He was always honest and fought hard in my case. He comes highly recommend.
Anonymous Former Client
Awesome!!!!!
I have no complaints; Steve did a very good job on explaining the details on everything that I was going through with my case. Steve got my case settled in no time, I will sure spread the word about Steve he is a very great lawyer.
Sara Former Client
Review
I liked how Steve explained everything, so I knew what I was getting in to. Steve got me what I deserved in no time. I would recommend him to anyone.
Andrew Former Client
Steven and I attended law school together and I have known him since 2000. He was stellar in representing a close friend with a personal injury matter. I have been very impressed with his communication, dedication and thoroughness in representation.
Pamela V. Attorney from Cypress, TX
Steve is the real deal! He is an extremely invaluable resource on all things Litigation for me as a younger attorney. He is not only great a securing the bigger verdicts, but actually cares about the clients and still sticks by his tried and true method of meeting, in person, with his clients to go over facts .
overall, a solid attorney, with a wealth of knowledge!
Crystal H. Attorney from Houston, TX
Steve and I were colleagues, where we worked on complex personal injury and wrongful death cases. What I observed in the years we worked together is that Steve is not only extremely skillful in his profession, but he is a tireless student of the law, constantly working to perfect the art of practicing law.
He genuinely cares about his clients and their cases and it shows. He has excellent work ethic. He is not only a terrific lawyer but also a great person. As a fellow member of the State Bar of Texas, I would recommend Steve to anyone needing a zealous advocate in a personal injury case.
Vivian E. Attorney from San Antonio, TX
After working with Steve for a couple of years, I found Steve to be an outstanding, aggressive and highly skilled lawyer in the courtroom. His confidence and knowledge of the courtroom and what it takes to succeed there, I believe will ensure his long term prosperity.
Robin T. Attorney from College Station, TX
I had the pleasure of working on a trial with Steven last August. His background as an ADA is clearly evident in the courtroom. Steven’s presentation of the evidence throughout trial is that of a seasoned attorney who has spent many hours in front of a jury.
His opening/closings were excellent, as well as his strategic litigating throughout the trial. Steven is a consummate professional and a pleasure to work with, and watch in the courtroom.
James H. From Miami, FL
When I met Steve, I was a legal assistant at a Plaintiff’s firm and he was working as an attorney for AIG. We connected there and then. Steve is a likable guy and an outstanding trial lawyer. He is charismatic and jurors like him.
He is a Plaintiff’s lawyer now and he has the right skill set to represent injured individuals: he is compassionate, honest, and sincere and will go the extra mile for his clients. I’ve known Steve for almost 8 years now and I’m excited to see his career evolve.
Alice L. Attorney in Houston, TX
Professional and Thorough
I used Steve Hollingsworth for a personal injury case following a car accident. He was very easy to work with and managed my expectations regarding costs, time commitment/duration, filing suit etc. Steve kept me informed during the process and always made sure I understand what everything meant.
My case took about 18 months to resolve, ending in mediation after filing suit and he pushed hard to make sure my best interest was represented and to ensure that I had the best possible (and fair) outcome.
I hope I never have a personal injury claim again but if I do, I would absolutely consult with Steve. He exceeded my expectations and made the process as painless as possible. I would high recommend him.
Jessie Former Client
About Hollingsworth Law Firm
Our aggressive personal injury trial attorneys at the Hollingsworth Law Firm are committed to fighting for the compensation you deserve. If you are the victim of an automobile accident, airplane accident, workplace injury or other catastrophic injury, you need legal advice from a personal injury attorney with proven results you can trust. Our dedicated legal team is proud to represent clients across the state of Texas. WE WILL START FIGHTING FOR YOUR RIGHTS TODAY!
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