Why Are Rear-End Car Accidents So Common?

The familiar sight of a car’s brake lights suddenly illuminating in traffic, followed by the ominous crunch of metal meeting metal, often marks the onset of a rear-end car accident. These incidents are unfortunately common in Savannah, GA. Despite their reputation for being relatively minor and harmless, some rear-end collisions can lead to serious injuries and significant property damage.

In some instances, victims of rear-end car accidents may receive sufficient coverage for their losses through an insurance claim. However, when this option falls short, a Savannah car accident lawyer from our firm can help you pursue additional compensation by filing a personal injury claim.

Common causes of rear-end collisions

Despite ongoing safety efforts, such as the advancement of collision avoidance technology, rear-end accidents remain a prevalent issue on Savannah roads. These sudden collisions, while often preventable, are influenced by a multitude of factors. Some of the primary elements contributing to rear-end collisions include:

• Distracted driving. Distracted driving ranks among the leading causes of rear-end collisions. Distractions, whether from texting, adjusting the radio, eating, or even daydreaming, can increase the risk of an accident.
• Tailgating. Tailgating, or following too closely, poses a significant risk factor for rear-end collisions. This behavior reduces the trailing driver’s necessary reaction time and leaves little room for unexpected stops.
• Weather conditions. Adverse weather conditions introduce a host of challenges for drivers. Reduced visibility, slippery roads, and compromised traction are common culprits in rear-end accidents during inclement weather.
• Speeding. Excessive driving speed is a significant contributor to rear-end collisions. When drivers exceed posted speed limits, they compromise their ability to react promptly to changing road conditions and unexpected obstacles.
• Impaired driving. Whether due to alcohol or drug use, impaired driving severely impedes a driver’s ability to react and make sound judgments, increasing the likelihood of rear-end collisions.

Severe injuries resulting from rear-end collisions

Rear-end collisions, even at seemingly moderate speeds, can result in a range of severe injuries with lasting repercussions. While some victims of rear-end incidents may be able to walk away with only minor wounds, other less fortunate individuals may experience one or more of the following injuries:

• Broken bones. Rear-end collisions can lead to various types of severe fractures. The most affected areas are the arms, legs, and pelvis. Surgical intervention and extensive rehabilitation are often necessary for victims to regain full strength and mobility.
• Chest trauma. The force of impact in rear-end collisions can result in chest injuries, which may include broken ribs, sternum fractures, and, in severe cases, punctured or collapsed lungs. Chronic pain and respiratory issues are common repercussions of serious chest trauma.
• Spinal cord injuries (SCI). The sudden jolt of a rear-end collision can lead to traumatic spinal cord injuries, with potentially devastating consequences. These injuries can range from partial to complete paralysis, impacting motor function and sensation below the injury site.
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Rear-end collisions can result in traumatic brain injuries, varying in severity from concussions to more severe forms of brain trauma. Symptoms may range from mild cognitive impairments to more profound and long-lasting neurological deficits.

Liability in rear-end collisions in Savannah, GA

In rear-end collisions, the trailing vehicle is typically presumed to be at fault. This presumption arises from the legal expectation that drivers should maintain a safe following distance and exercise due diligence to avoid collisions. However, there are exceptions, such as instances where the lead vehicle makes sudden and unexpected maneuvers, or if it can be proven that the lead car reversed into the trailing vehicle. There may also be challenges if there are multiple vehicles involved, either because of a chain-reaction crash or because an entirely different accident affected the vehicle which hit you.

Georgia operates under a modified comparative negligence system. This legal framework assesses the degree of fault assigned to each party involved in an accident. It allows victims to pursue compensation even if they are partially at fault, as long as their share of responsibility does not exceed the specified threshold of 50%. This means that a party can seek compensation for their damages if their degree of fault is not determined to be greater than half.

Legal recourse for rear-end accident victims in Savannah, GA

Victims of rear-end collisions in Savannah can seek compensation for their physical, emotional, and financial losses of the accident. It is especially important to work with an experienced car accident attorney during this stage, as an array of pitfalls exist that can leave victims insufficiently compensated for their injuries and other damages.

Typically following any car accident, insurance companies reach out to those involved to acquire information regarding the incident. However, insurers are primarily motivated to protect their financial interests, and may even attempt to shift blame onto you to minimize their own liability. There are a variety of tactics that insurance companies can potentially use against you, such as getting you to admit fault or looking for inconsistencies in your story. Allowing an attorney from Harris Lowry Manton LLP to handle all communication with insurers is the best way to protect your rights moving forward.

Additionally, even when the other party is proven to be at fault, insurance payouts are often inadequate for victims. One of our skilled Savannah car accident attorneys can work with you to ensure your claim fully covers all of your damages or pursue a personal injury lawsuit if necessary.

If you or a loved one has been affected by a rear-end collision in Savannah, GA, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. After a car accident, the knowledgeable attorneys at Harris Lowry Manton LLP can guide you through the claims process, negotiate fiercely on your behalf, and fight for the full compensation you are owed. To set up a free case review at one of our offices in Savannah or Atlanta, give us a call today or reach out to us by submitting our contact form.