Common Causes of Rear-End Accidents
A rear-end accident is often called a “fender bender” because the damage and injuries that result are often minor compared to other types of car crashes. However, some people who are involved in rear-end accidents come away with serious injuries that can require ongoing medical care and that can hinder their work or everyday activities. If another person caused your rear-end accident, you have the right to seek compensation for the costs of medical care, lost wages, and other accident-related losses. The following are some causes of rear-end accidents that could result in liability.
Distracted driving – In the age of constant texting and multitasking, drivers are becoming increasingly distracted behind the wheel. Even if a driver takes only two seconds to look down at a phone, purse, or radio, traffic may unexpectedly slow or stop in front of them and they may be unable to stop in time to avoid a collision.
Aggressive driving – When a driver’s impatience escalates to aggression, it is dangerous for everyone on the road. Aggressive driving can result in rear-end accidents in several different ways, including the following:
- A driver is following too closely (“tailgating”) and is unable to stop if the car in front of them hits the brakes
- A driver is making dangerous lane changes and suddenly “cuts off” another driver by passing directly in front of them, causing the other car to rear-end the aggressive driver
- A driver is making obscene or intimidating gestures or comments at another driver, who then gets distracted and crashes into the back of another car
- A driver is excessively speeding and cannot stop in time if they encounter slower traffic
Impaired driving – When a driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, their judgment, focus, and reaction time will all be impaired and they can easily hit the rear end of another vehicle.
The above are only some of many examples of when drivers may be held liable for causing a rear-end accident.
Contact a Gainesville Car Accident Attorney for a Free Consultation
If you have been rear-ended or otherwise involved in a car accident, you should not wait to call an experienced Gainesville auto accident attorney to learn more about your legal rights. At Meldon Law, we have represented the rights of accident victims with a wide variety of injuries and we are here to help you and your family. Call today at 800-373-8000 for more information.
