Were you hit from behind by another driver on the road? Rear-end collisions can be terrifying, even if you saw the person coming or braced yourself for the impact. No amount of preparation can make a situation like this less overwhelming, stressful, or disorienting.
While we cannot go back in time and undo what was done, we can represent you as your San Bernardino rear-end collision lawyer. At Omega Law Group Accident & Injury Attorneys, we believe victims of this type of car crash deserve to pursue compensation and justice.
As your San Bernardino car accident lawyer, we can help you do exactly that. We have decades of experience recovering millions of dollars for our clients, and you can trust us to advocate for your rights and fight for a favorable outcome in your case. You’re not alone.
Common Causes of Rear-End Collisions
While rear-end collisions can happen for numerous reasons, several similar behaviors often contribute to this type of accident. While the exact cause of the crash that left you injured will depend on the details of your unique situation, here are examples of common causes:
- Driving while distracted
- Following too closely behind another vehicle
- Operating a vehicle amid poor weather conditions
- Speeding above legal limits
- Stopping suddenly and unexpectedly
If you are the victim of a collision where someone hit you from behind, your San Bernardino personal injury lawyer will look at the details of your case and investigate the cause of the crash.
This information assists in two key ways. First, it will inform their legal strategy as they help you pursue compensation. Second, it will enable your rear-end collision attorney in San Bernardino to determine fault following the crash.
California Laws on Rear-End Collisions
California law is specific when it comes to determining fault in rear-end collisions. Let’s take a look at two state laws that could affect the outcome of your personal injury case.
California’s Comparative Negligence Law
The state operates under a comparative negligence system, meaning that fault in an accident can be shared between multiple parties. However, even if the rear driver is partially at fault for the collision, they may still be entitled to compensation.
For instance, if the driver in front was engaging in reckless behavior or violating traffic laws, the rear driver may be able to claim partial fault for the accident and seek damages accordingly.
Furthermore, each party found responsible will be held accountable for their percentage of responsibility. However, in many rear-end collision cases, the driver who strikes the vehicle in front of them is considered primarily at fault.
California Vehicle Code Section 21703
According to California Vehicle Code Section 21703, drivers must maintain a safe and reasonable distance from the vehicle in front of them. You must take the following factors into account while driving:
- Speed
- Road conditions
- Visibility
If the rear driver fails to maintain a safe following distance, they are typically deemed negligent. This rule holds true unless there is evidence of another driver’s wrongdoing, such as the front vehicle stopping suddenly without cause.
(310) 526-8383Injuries Resulting from Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions can cause a range of injuries, ranging from minor to major. Even in low-speed situations, the impact of a rear-end crash can cause serious physical harm. Here are a handful of examples of common injuries associated with rear-end collisions:
- Whiplash: This occurs when your head is suddenly jerked forward and then backward, causing strain on the neck and spine. Symptoms of whiplash may include neck pain, headaches, dizziness, and muscle stiffness.
- Back and spine injuries: The force behind rear-end collisions means they can result in back and spinal cord injuries, such as vertebral fractures, herniated discs, or spinal cord damage. These injuries can have long-lasting consequences, including permanent paralysis or loss of mobility.
- Concussions and head injuries: The sudden impact of a rear-end collision can also cause head injuries, including concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Even if you were wearing a seatbelt and your head never made contact with the steering wheel or window, the jolt from the crash can still cause your brain to hit your skull.
- Psychological and emotional trauma: In addition to physical injuries, rear-end collision victims like you can also suffer from both emotional and psychological trauma. Situations like these can lead to anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Victims may require counseling or therapy to cope with these emotional consequences.
Contact Our Rear-End Collision Lawyers in San Bernardino Today for Legal Guidance
Unfortunately, rear-end collisions are too common for comfort. Still, knowing that other people have experienced the same situation doesn’t make anything better. To take that first step toward recovery, reach out to our San Bernardino rear-end collision attorneys today.
At Omega Law Group, we can help you hold the responsible parties accountable for the physical pain and emotional distress they have put you through. The sooner you call, the sooner we can set up a no-obligation consultation. You’re not alone—we’re here to help.
