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It can happen in an instant. One minute, you are stopped in traffic, and the next, a car plows into you from behind, causing major damage and injuries. Rear-end collisions are the most common accident in the United States, with almost 2 million per year. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), rear-end collisions account for almost 30% of all auto accidents and about 6% of fatal crashes.
Rear-end collisions occur when one vehicle hits the back of another. These accidents are most common at intersections, although they can happen anywhere. Several factors may contribute to rear-end truck collisions. The driver may be inattentive or distracted and fail to notice that the traffic ahead is slowed or stopped. The driver may be traveling, making it difficult or impossible to stop quickly.
The vehicle could be following too closely behind another car. These factors can be part of the reasons a rear-end collision occurs. Rear-end collisions can occur at any speed. Often, they happen in traffic where the result is a light tap with no injuries. The faster a vehicle travels when it slams into the back of another car, the more severe the damages and injuries are likely to be from the impact.
Rear-end collisions can cause some of the most severe injuries of all accidents. The most common injury in a rear-end collision is whiplash. Whiplash occurs when the head and neck snap quickly forward and back, such as what happens when your vehicle takes a sudden hit from behind. The symptoms of whiplash can start immediately, or they may be delayed.
If a driver or passenger is not wearing a seat restraint, a rear-end collision can propel them into or through the windshield. This can cause severe head trauma or brain injuries. The Mayo Clinic describes some of the common symptoms of whiplash, including pain, stiffness, reduced motion, headaches, fatigue, dizziness, tingling in the arms, and tenderness in the upper back or shoulders. The treatment for whiplash includes rest, medication to reduce pain and inflammation, and rehabilitative therapy. Recovery depends on many factors and can take weeks, months, or longer.
If you or a loved one were hurt in a rear-end collision, do not delay in getting medical treatment. Some injuries can worsen over time, particularly head and back injuries. Follow the doctor’s orders and keep records of your medical treatment and bills. Talk to a qualified Houston accident attorney. Your lawyer will immediately assist in obtaining documentation and evidence that will prove the other driver’s negligence. You may have compensation for your injuries and damages from the negligent party.
Contact our big rig accident attorneys if you were hurt in a traffic accident. We have experience in representing clients to obtain the compensation they deserve for their injuries.
Call 281-893-0760 for a FREE consultation on an injury claim in Texas.
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