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?
According to the NHTSA, 87% of rear-end collisions are caused by distracted drivers, making them completely preventable.
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
If you have been injured in a Texas rear-end accident caused by negligence, contact our dedicated Houston auto accident attorneys at the Hollingsworth Law Firm today for a free case evaluation. Call 713-637-4560 or contact us online.
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.
