Dallas Rear-End Collision Attorneys

Helping Victims of Rear-End Crashes in Texas

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), rear-end collisions are the most common type of car accident in the United States. In fact, there are more than 1.7 million rear-end crashes each year, resulting in thousands of injuries and fatalities. If you or someone you love was involved in a rear-end collision, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

At Aldous \ Walker LLP, our Dallas rear-end collision lawyers have extensive experience handling these types of cases. We understand the unique challenges they present and can help you navigate the legal process from start to finish. Our team is prepared to fight for the best possible award or settlement.

Call us at (214) 307-6307 or contact us online to request a free, confidential consultation.

What is a Rear-End Collision?

A rear-end collision is a type of car accident that occurs when one vehicle crashes into the back of another. These accidents are often referred to as “fender benders” because they typically result in minor damage to the vehicles involved. However, rear-end collisions can also be quite serious, especially when they occur at high speeds or involve large commercial trucks.

Some of the most common causes of rear-end collisions include:

• Tailgating: Following too closely behind another vehicle doesn't allow enough time to react if the leading vehicle suddenly slows down or stops.
• Distracted Driving: Activities such as texting, talking on the phone, eating, or adjusting the radio can divert attention away from the road, leading to rear-end collisions.
• Speeding: Driving at excessive speeds reduces the driver's ability to stop in time, especially when the traffic ahead slows down unexpectedly.
• Sudden Stops: A vehicle stopping abruptly, perhaps due to traffic conditions or an emergency, can catch the following driver off guard.
• Poor Weather Conditions: Rain, snow, or icy roads can reduce traction and increase the stopping distance, making it more challenging to avoid rear-end collisions.
• Faulty Brake Lights: If the brake lights on the leading vehicle are not functioning properly, the following driver may not be aware that the vehicle is slowing down.
• Fatigue: Tired or drowsy driving can impair a driver's reaction time and decision-making abilities, contributing to rear-end collisions.
• Aggressive Driving: Aggressive behaviors such as aggressive tailgating or sudden lane changes increase the likelihood of collisions.

Regardless of the cause, the driver who rear-ends another vehicle is almost always considered to be at fault for the accident. This is because all drivers have a legal duty to follow the rules of the road and maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of them. When a driver fails to do so and causes a rear-end collision, they can be held liable for the victim’s damages.

Common Injuries from Rear-End Collisions

Even at low speeds, rear-end collisions can cause serious injuries. This is because these accidents often result in a sudden and violent jerking motion, which can cause the head and neck to move back and forth rapidly. This type of motion is commonly referred to as “whiplash” and is one of the most common injuries sustained in rear-end collisions.

Whiplash is a soft tissue injury that affects the neck and upper back. It occurs when the head is suddenly jerked forward and then backward, causing the neck to move in an unnatural way. Whiplash can cause a wide range of symptoms, including neck pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion. Other symptoms of whiplash include headaches, fatigue, dizziness, and tingling or numbness in the arms.

Whiplash is not the only injury that can result from a rear-end collision. These accidents can also cause other types of neck and back injuries, as well as head injuries, broken bones, and more. In some cases, rear-end collisions can even be fatal.

Who is Liable for a Rear-End Collision?

In most cases, the driver who rear-ends another vehicle is considered to be at fault for the accident. This is because all drivers have a legal duty to follow the rules of the road and maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of them. When a driver fails to do so and causes a rear-end collision, they can be held liable for the victim’s damages.

However, there are some situations in which the driver who was rear-ended may be partially or fully at fault for the accident. For example, if the driver who was rear-ended suddenly and unexpectedly slammed on their brakes, they may be partially at fault for the accident. This is because all drivers have a legal duty to drive in a safe and reasonable manner. If a driver fails to do so and causes an accident, they can be held liable for the victim’s damages.

Other potentially liable parties in a rear-end collision case include:

• The driver’s employer, if the driver was working at the time of the accident
• The manufacturer of a defective auto part
• The government entity responsible for maintaining the road, if a dangerous road condition caused the accident

It is important to note that Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. Under this rule, an injured party can still recover compensation for their damages even if they were partially at fault for the accident. However, their total recovery will be reduced by their percentage of fault. If the injured party is found to be more than 50% at fault for the accident, they will be barred from recovering any compensation.

Do not hesitate to let Aldous \ Walker fight for your entitled compensation. Contact us today to speak with our experienced legal team.