Rear-end collisions are not just minor “fender benders.” They can be serious car accidents that inflict severe injuries. If you get involved in a rear-end accident in Sacramento, it is important to know your rights and what to do to protect them. If you have major injuries or a case with complications, don’t hesitate to contact a Sacramento car accident attorney for assistance.
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Prevalence of Rear-End Collisions in Sacramento
Busy and congested roadways in Sacramento are a common setting for rear-end collisions due to stop-and-go traffic conditions. Examples include Watt Avenue, I-5, US Highway 50 and Garden Highway. High-traffic intersections also see rear-end collisions often due to drivers running red lights and stop signs or driving while distracted.
Common Contributing Factors
Driver error and negligence, or the failure to use proper care behind the wheel, are often behind rear-end collisions in Sacramento. Careless and reckless drivers may engage in dangerous activities such as following others too closely, speeding, texting while driving, drowsy driving and road rage. These are leading causes of rear-end car accidents in California.
Common Injuries Resulting From Rear-End Accidents
When a car crashes into the back of another vehicle, the force of the collision can propel the occupants of the second car rapidly forward and backward. This can cause various soft-tissue injuries. In severe rear-end accidents (e.g., those involving large trucks), the force can crush the front vehicle and cause catastrophic injuries.
Common rear-end accident injuries are:
- Whiplash and neck injuries: rapid back-and-forth motion can lead to chronic pain and reduced mobility in the neck.
- Back and spinal injuries: herniated disks and spinal cord damage may require extensive treatment.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): head impacts can result in concussions or more severe TBIs.
- Seat belt injuries: being thrown against a seat belt can cause bruising, soft-tissue injuries, broken bones and organ damage.
If you suffer any type of injury in a rear-end collision in Sacramento, you may be eligible for financial compensation for your related medical bills, pain and suffering, and more.
Determining Liability in Rear-End Collisions
Liability, or legal and financial responsibility, for a rear-end collision in Sacramento depends on who caused the accident. California is an at-fault state, meaning that the car insurance provider of the at-fault driver becomes responsible for paying for the crash.
Presumption of Fault
In a rear-end collision, the rear driver is typically presumed to be at fault for following too closely or failing to stop in time to prevent a crash. In California, all drivers are expected to maintain a reasonably safe following distance between their vehicles and others based on road, weather and traffic conditions.
Exceptions to the Rule
Liability can shift to the front driver in certain circumstances. If the front driver made a sudden stop, slammed on the brakes without reason (brake-checking), cut the other driver off in an unsafe lane change, was driving recklessly or did not have properly working brake lights, this could be proof of the front driver’s fault.
Get Help From an Experienced Rear-End Car Accident Lawyer in Sacramento
Being involved in a rear-end collision in Sacramento can lead to painful injuries, expensive medical bills and inconvenient property damage. In your time of need, turn to the car accident lawyers at Jacoby & Meyers for legal advice and guidance. We can help you get through your car insurance claim, providing the support you need to hold someone responsible and maximize your financial recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation in Sacramento.