Rear-End Collisions

Today’s drivers seem to be more and more distracted while they are operating a motor vehicle. People’s automobiles have become their mobile offices, and communication centers. Drivers are talking on cell phones, texting, interacting with navigation systems, fiddling with the radio, or trying to control kids or pets in the back seat. Inattentive driving is the most common cause of rear-end collisions, even at slower speeds. No matter how careful a driver might be, there is always the risk of being involved in a rear-end accident due to factor’s beyond their control.

Rear-end collisions can cause significant damage to a vehicle, and usually, injury to the driver or other occupants of the vehicle that is hit. It doesn’t take much speed, to create an injury-producing impact.

Rear-end collisions can cause immediate, and often long-lasting injury, or in some cases the injury becomes apparent a day or two after the collision. Neck and back injuries caused by even a low-impact rear-end collision, can result in a lifetime of physical and/or emotional discomfort.

If you have been involved in an accident, and sustained an injury as a result, please call one of our experienced Personal Injury Lawyers. During the FREE initial consultation, we will answer your questions, and give you an honest assessment of your claim. At SANFORD A. KASSEL, A Professional Law Corporation, our legal team has the experience and the resources to put together the best possible case for you, and get the maximum compensation you are entitled to.

A rear-end collision can be caused by something as unexpected as a driver stepping on the gas too soon at a traffic signal, and hitting the car in front of it. 

• Distracted Driving: Using phones or other devices while driving.
• Speeding: Driving too fast for road conditions.
• Following Too Closely: Not maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.

In California, the driver who rear-ends another vehicle is typically found at fault. Key laws include:

• California Vehicle Code § 22350: Prohibits driving faster than is reasonable for conditions.
• California Vehicle Code § 21703: Requires maintaining a safe following distance.

Rear-End accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, even at low speeds. Because the body is often caught off guard, the sudden jolt frequently results in “delayed-onset” symptoms that may not appear until hours or days later.

Neck And Head Injuries

• Whiplash: The most common injury, caused by the head snapping forward and back. It can lead to chronic neck pain, stiffness, and headaches.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): A concussion or more severe TBI can occur if the head strikes the steering wheel or headrest, or even just from the brain shaking within the skull.
• Facial and Dental Trauma: Airbag deployment or impact with the dashboard can cause broken noses, jaw fractures, or chipped teeth.

Back And Spinal Injuries

• Herniated Discs: The force of impact can cause the cushioning discs between vertebrae to slip or rupture, often pressing on nerves and causing numbness or weakness in the limbs.
• Spinal Fractures: High-speed collisions can lead to compression fractures in the mid or lower back.
• Sprains and Strains: Soft tissue damage to the muscles and ligaments in the back is a frequent cause of long-term mobility issues.

Upper Body And Internal Injuries

• Arm and Wrist Fractures: Drivers often brace themselves against the steering wheel, leading to broken bones or rotator cuff tears.
• Seatbelt Injuries: While life-saving, the force of the belt can cause bruised or broken ribs and chest wall trauma.
• Internal Bleeding: Significant impacts can cause organ damage that may not be visible to the naked eye but can be life-threatening.

If you or someone you know has been involved in a rear-end collision, consider contacting a trusted and highly-successful law firms for a FREE Consultation. The Accident Attorneys at SANFORD A. KASSEL, A Professional Law Corporation can help you understand your rights and guide you through the legal process.