Rear-end car accidents are some of the most common car accidents witnessed on New Orleans
streets. Millions of people are injured in rear-end crashes each year in the
United States. However, why do these types of car accidents happen? Is there a
way to stop rear-end accidents from occurring so frequently?
What is a Rear-End Car Accident?
Rear-end crashes occur when a vehicle slams into the back of a vehicle in front of it.
These types of collisions can occur anywhere, but they are common in heavy
traffic and intersections. The causes of rear-end crashes vary, but distractions
while driving is a very common cause for rear-end collisions.
Common causes of rear-end crashes include:
- Distracted driving causes the rear
driver not to notice that a vehicle has slowed down or stopped in front of the
driver. - Following too closely is another common
cause of rear-end crashes. Drivers do not follow at a safe distance that allows
for time to respond, slow, or stop before colliding with the vehicle in front
of them. - Speeding is another common cause of
rear-end accidents. As with following too closely, speeding reduces the time it
takes to stop suddenly in response to traffic situations or in poor weather conditions. - Faulty brakes or improperly
maintained brakes can also contribute to the cause of a rear-end wreck. - Fatigued driving and road rage can
cause a driver to follow too closely, become distracted, or drive aggressively,
which all may lead to a rear-end accident.
Injuries Common in Rear-end Crashes
Whiplash is one of the most common injuries associated with rear-end accidents. When a vehicle
is hit from behind, the force of the impact causes the occupant’s head to whip
violently backward and forward. The sudden movement of the head back and forth causes
damage to the soft tissues in the neck.
Symptoms of whiplash can include limited range of motion, pain, headaches, nausea, and
shoulder/back pain. Whiplash can typically be treated at home with rest and
time with minimal medical intervention. However, severe cases of whiplash may
require significant medical treatment and could result in permanent impairments
and chronic pain.
Other injuries that are common in rear-end collisions include:
- Back and spinal cord injuries
- Brain and head injuries
- Seat belt injuries, including seat
belt syndrome - Wrist and arm injuries
- Facial injuries
- Lacerations and cuts
- Airbag injuries
It is important to seek medical treatment after a rear-end accident. Some injuries may not
present symptoms for a few days or weeks, but could result in substantial damages,
pain, and suffering.
Are There Ways to Prevent Rear-end Crashes in New Orleans?
Paying close attention when you drive is the best way to avoid a rear-end accident. Limiting
and avoiding all distractions, driving at a slower speed, and allowing more
distance between you and the vehicle in front of you gives you additional time
to react when traffic slows, or there is a sudden change in driving conditions.
Purchasing a vehicle with the latest crash avoidance technology can also help prevent rear-end crashes. Avoid driving when you are tired, drowsy, or impaired by alcohol or drugs. When you are driving, avoid slamming on your brakes whenever possible, which could prevent another driver from rear-ending your vehicle. Always replace broken or malfunctioning brake lights and taillights immediately.
Contact a New Orleans Car Accident Lawyer for Help
If you are injured in a car accident, contact Attorney Fred Olinde of The Olinde Firm by
calling (504) 587-1440 or 1-800-587-1889 to schedule a free consultation . with one of our NOLA car accident attorneys.