Thursday 9 November 2023

Rear-End Collisions: Causes and Common Injuries

Rear-end collisions are considered to be one of the most prominent types of auto accidents in the country. These are considered to be a common cause of accidental injuries.

In present times, distracted driving is highly prevalent. However, it is not the only cause of rear-end collisions. These collisions can be caused by:

  • Distracted driving
  • Speeding
  • Heavy traffic
  • Weather conditions
  • Road rage
  • Mechanical failure
  • Fatigued driving

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
In order to prevent and mitigate rear-end crashes, go for the Forward Collision Avoidance Systems. These systems allow a vehicle to automatically brake without driver action when a crash is likely to occur. However, unfortunately, even with this technology, accidents are still likely to happen. The common injuries you could experience as a result of a rear-end collision can differ. It may differ based on certain factors.
 

What are some of the common rear-end injuries caused?

 

Whiplash
Whiplash is certainly one of the most common injuries that can result from a rear-end collision. This injury is usually caused by a violent, sudden movement of the neck and head. It can cause serious soft tissue damage.

The severity and extent of whiplash injuries vary from case to case. There are certain spinal injuries that demand more intensive medical treatment than others. These are the situations where the head, neck, and back move more violently. This heightens the likelihood of sustaining a serious injury. One of the most prominent dangers of a rear-end whiplash injury is that it isn’t immediately apparent. It could take days or weeks for the full symptoms of the injury to become truly visible.

Broken Bones
Broken bones arise from failure to brake. This is a prominent side effect of many collisions. These are associated with all auto accidents. However, in a rear-end collision, the most common breaks occur to certain parts of the body like hands, spine, ribcage, feet, and skull.

Many modern crash safety equipment exists today. However, broken bones can still happen when the collision is extreme. Unlike soft-tissue injuries, many of the breaks can be easily detected. This enables victims to get medical treatment just on time. However, when there are fractures to the skull, it can be way more serious. These fractures can indicate other problems such as traumatic brain injury, or TBI.

Traumatic Brain Injury

TBI-related deaths are way too common today. Just like whiplash, the early warning signs of traumatic brain injury may not be instantly visible. This could take days or weeks for the full effects of the injury to fully manifest.

There are certain common symptoms. These include loss of consciousness, dizziness, chronic fatigue, abnormal changes in behavior, impaired speech, lowered cognitive performance, etc. The bad thing is that traumatic brain injury can be extremely difficult to treat. Also, certain injuries can result in permanent impairments. Some might even lead to death.

Facial Disfigurement/Scarring
When it comes to rear-end crashes, occupants can be thrown against their restraints. There are times when an occupant could hit a dashboard or headrest in a manner that leaves them with permanent scarring or disfigurements. In such cases, the quality of safety measures and immediacy of treatment can be major deciding factors in preventing scarring.

Paralysis
When a spine or brain injury is pretty severe, it can leave you partially or completely paralyzed. There are multiple factors that can impact the degree of paralysis.

Seat Belt Injuries
Seat belts are vital when driving. But, surprisingly, when someone is involved in a rear-end car accident, seat belts can cause injuries! When your car is struck from behind, your seat belt tightens in order to hold your body firmly in place and prevent it from striking the steering wheel, dashboard, and windshield. The moment this happens, the seat belt can very well cut your skin when your body is thrust forward. The most common seat belt injuries are bruising or lacerations to the chest, neck, and torso.

You must see a doctor and have your injuries documented if you wish to file a claim. Make sure to seek legal representation. Get a monetary settlement for your injuries.
Usually, the Extent of Your Injuries has to be taken into account. This extent depends on certain common factors like type of vehicles involved, the rate of speed, the location of impact, if seatbelts were worn, airbag deployment, seat back angle, etc.

Keep in mind that headrests can be the most common source of protection against whiplash in rear-end collisions.
 

Steps to take after a Rear-End Collision

Right after a rear-end collision, you must contact the emergency medical service as soon as possible. Keep in mind that the timeliness of your treatment can make a huge difference in your recovery process. Once you have properly taken care of your health needs and the needs of any other occupants in your vehicle, consider contacting an experienced auto accident attorney.

You must keep in mind that many things can happen in the aftermath of a severe rear-end collision. Some of these include astonomical medical bills, adjusted insurance rates, lost time and wages, etc. so, many of you might stress over financial trouble right after such an accident.

Keep in mind that you do not need to face a financial emergency due to the recklessness of others. Make sure to contact an experienced auto accident attorney in your community to represent you. Try to rightful earn you the compensation for injuries, property damage and medical treatment associated with such a collision.
 

Ways to prevent rear-end collisions

Drivers must check your mirrors more often. When coming to a stop at a traffic light, try to look in the rearview mirror to be sure vehicles behind you are stopping. Make sure to check your mirrors to be sure traffic is stopping behind you.

It is also important to stay focused on your driving. When you slow to a stop, try to detect an escape route. Never rush up to a stop sign or red light. While stopped, try to visualize what you can do should the vehicle behind you not show signs of stopping in time.