Maison Law represents victims of car accidents in Salinas and throughout Central California every year. We believe that you have every right to hold a party responsible for the harm that they have caused you in a rear-end collision. Our attorneys will provide you with the resources that you need so that you can move forward during these delicate and traumatic times. Please do not hesitate to contact us for a free consultation today.
In 2022, the Transportation Injury Mapping System (TIMS) reported that 103 rear-end collisions took place in Salinas. Out of these accidents, a total of 152 people were injured. Rear-end collisions happen in the blink of an eye due to a wide array of reasons and can have devastating consequences you never expected. After a Salinas rear-end collision, you may wonder where you can turn for recovery.
Common Causes of Rear-End Accidents in Salinas
Rear-end collisions are some of the most common accidents that occur in the U.S. and Salinas is no stranger to these crashes. Statistics show that, between 2012 and 2015, rear-end collisions made up approximately one-half of all accidents involving two vehicles. These accidents happen within seconds due to some of the following reasons:
- Driver distractions, such as eating while driving or texting
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Fatigued driving
- Disobeying the speed limit
- Following too closely/Tailgating
- Road rage and other aggressive driving behaviors
A road mistake could easily lead to a rear-end collision as vehicles follow one another on major roads. These accidents can range anywhere from a minor fender-bender to a catastrophic accident with lifelong results.
Liability in Rear-End Collisions
All drivers on our roads owe others a duty of care to keep them safe from harm. This means obeying the rules of the road at all times so that severe accidents can be prevented. To prevent rear-end collisions, drivers are told repeatedly to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of them and to keep in mind that a vehicle can stop at any time.
In most cases, it is true that the driver in the back will be liable for a rear-end collision. Even if the driver in front of them suddenly slammed on their brakes, the rear driver is supposed to account for this and leave plenty of space between themselves and the other vehicle. However, there are exceptions. What if the driver in front suddenly reversed into the vehicle behind them? What if both drivers were driving erratically at the time of the accident? In these cases, the front driver could be liable or both parties could share responsibility. This means that your damages could be lessened by the percentage of fault that you shared in your accident.
Damages Available in Rear-End Accidents
When a rear-end collision is severe enough, the injuries that result can follow you for weeks, months, or even the rest of your life. These can include brain injuries, broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and more. This means that you could be eligible for a wide array of damages following your collision, such as the following:
- Past and future medical expenses related to your injuries
- Loss of income and future lost earnings due to missed time at work
- Reduced quality of life or enjoyment of life
- Disfigurement or disability caused by the injuries
- Pain and suffering
After a rear-end accident, you should receive immediate medical care even if you believe that you have not been injured. It never hurts to check, as it could make all the difference in your health and the future of your claim.
Avoiding Rear-End Accidents in Salinas: Some Helpful Tips
You never know what will happen when you share the roads with other vehicles. However, there are some steps that you can take to try and prevent rear-end accidents to the best of your ability.
- Make sure that your brake lights are always working so that drivers know when you are coming to a stop.
- Stay focused and never become distracted when you are driving.
- Avoid speeding, slamming on the brakes, and other aggressive driving manners.
- Make sure to pay attention to the weather so that you can make quick stops if you have to.
- Never tailgate other vehicles, which means keeping a safe following distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.
Contact a Salinas Car Accident Lawyer Today
If you or someone you love has been injured in a rear-end collision in Salinas, you may be feeling helpless and alone. It is not uncommon to feel completely overwhelmed after you have sustained life-altering injuries in a car accident caused by another party, especially if you have never dealt with the legal system in the past. You have options during these difficult times.
At Maison Law, our Salinas car accident lawyers want to help you make the journey back to a normal life after an accident. We will help you fight the insurance company to negotiate the best settlement and meet all deadlines that are required in your claim. We have the resources to help you at this time. Please contact us today for more information and a no-obligation case review.
