Visalia is home to many major highways and intersections, with thousands of people traveling our roads every day to get to work and family. In 2022, the Transportation Injury Mapping System (TIMS) estimated that 382 total accidents took place in Visalia. Some car accidents are more common than others on Visalia roads, from head-on collisions to multi-vehicle crashes. Another common type of car accident that we see commonly are rear-end collisions.
At Maison Law, we are prepared to assist you compassionately as you navigate the California legal system. We understand how traumatic a car accident can be and you may be feeling stressed out as you deal with the insurance company. Contact us for representation so that you can move forward during these challenging times.
How Do Rear-End Car Accidents Occur?
According to information provided by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, rear-end collisions happen when a driver strikes a vehicle in front of them from behind. Rear-end accidents happen in many areas, from intersections to highways and in the midst of congested traffic. Though a rear-end collision could happen at low speeds, it can also take place at high speeds and lead to extensive damage.
There are many types of scenarios that lead to rear-end accidents on our roads:
- A driver is stopped at a red light and the driver behind them is not paying attention
- A driver is traveling too closely behind another driver
- A driver is traveling too fast on the highway and can’t stop in time, slamming into the back of a second vehicle
- An intoxicated driver cannot judge the distance needed to stop in time
No matter how a rear-end accident occurs, the driver in the back is typically to blame for one of these collisions. However, this is not always the case and sometimes the driver in front or both drivers are at fault for a rear-end accident.
Common Causes of Visalia Rear-End Accidents
With about 1.7 million rear-end collisions reportedly taking place every year, there is no doubt that these collisions happen due to a wide array of reasons. Some of the most common causes of these accidents include the following:
Distracted Driving: Rear-end collisions are most commonly caused by distracted drivers every year. If a driver is eating or too busy texting on their phone, they might not notice that the driver in front of them has stopped until the last second. This can lead to a catastrophic rear-end collision with harmful results.
Aggressive Driving: There are many types of aggressive driving actions that can lead to a rear-end accident, from tailgating to following too closely or cutting off another driver in quick-paced traffic.
Drunk Driving: Drunk driving can cause a driver to drive unsafely, especially because a driver might not realize that they are following too closely or that another driver has stopped in front of them. On top of an accident, a driver will typically receive charges or be arrested for drunk driving.
Weather Hazards: There are many types of weather conditions, such as slippery and wet roads, that can contribute to a rear-end accident.
Fatigued Driving: If a driver is driving while fatigued, they might fall asleep and slam into the back of another vehicle at high speeds. This can lead to catastrophic damage and injuries.
Injuries Present in Visalia Rear-End Accidents
The injuries that stem from a rear-end accident can range anywhere from minor to severe in nature. Some of the most common examples of injuries that stem from rear-end accidents in Visalia each year include:
- Neck injuries such as whiplash and straining of the neck tendons
- Upper and lower back injuries
- Brain injuries when a victim hits their head
- Spinal cord injuries, which can be temporary to permanent
- Broken bones
Due to the force of a rear-end accident, many individuals will slam into their steering wheel or become thrown around within their vehicle. This is why even the most seemingly minor fender-bender can lead to serious damages that you never expected.
Is the Driver in the Back Always at Fault?
Many people wrongly believe that the driver in the back is always at fault for a rear-end collision. However, this is not always the case given various circumstances. The front driver could be at fault if they have engaged in the following actions:
- Reversing into the vehicle in front of them
- Stopping suddenly to make a turn but failing to turn
- Making a sudden stop due to a distraction
- Having a broken brake light
- Stopping in the middle of the road due to a mechanical issue
- Performing a “brake check” due to road rage
It is not always easy to prove negligence in a rear-end accident. Because of this, you may need legal help on your side as you move forward.
Contact a Rear-End Visalia Car Accident Lawyer Today
There are many reasons why victims of rear-end car accidents may decide to speak with an attorney, such as the following:
- You sustained serious injuries that led to medical treatment
- You suffered a variety of financial losses
- You lost somebody you love in a rear-end collision
You should not have to deal with the stressful aftermath of a Visalia car accident on your own. On top of the stress caused by the insurance company, the other driver involved in your accident might not take the blame or will try to pin the blame on you. This can leave you in a desperate situation.
At Maison Law, we are here to help you navigate the legal system after a rear-end accident. Rear-end accidents can be entirely complex and difficult to understand on your own, which is why it may be beneficial to speak with a Visalia car accident lawyer. We will stand up to the insurance company on your behalf so that you do not miss out on any financial opportunities. We offer you a confidential and free consultation, so please do not hesitate to contact us today.
