Oklahoma City Rear End Accidents

Posted on 09/28/22

in Car Accidents

Rear-end collisions are an unfortunately common cause of car accidents. According to the National Highway Safety Administration, they make up about 29 percent of all vehicle crashes. Rear-end accidents are also some of the most serious and traumatic accidents because you can’t always see a car coming when you’re hit from behind. Even a mild collision from the rear can cause painful whiplash injuries. High-speed rear-end accidents are responsible for many serious injuries and even fatalities. Worse, they’re almost always the result of inattention, distraction, or carelessness on the part of the driver that hits from behind. That’s why if you’ve been involved in a rear-end collision in Oklahoma City you need skilled, experienced legal help to ensure you get the compensation and damages you need to relieve financial burdens during your recovery. The OKC car accident lawyers at the Dan Davis Law Firm in Oklahoma City are ready to fight aggressively on your behalf and advocate for your rights.

Understanding Fault in Rear-End Collisions

In most cases, the driver in the rear is at fault in rear-end accidents since they have the clear view ahead and the responsibility to stop before colliding. Driver distraction is the number one cause of rear-end accidents. Examples of driving distractions include:

  • Cell phone texting, talking, and social media scrolling
  • Viewing or searching for driving directions on phones or GPS devices
  • Adjusting the radio or other sound systems
  • Tailgating or following too closely
  • Eating and drinking
  • Applying makeup
  • Interactions with passengers or pets

Intoxication and drowsiness are also responsible for some rear-end collisions due to their effects on reaction times.

In less frequent instances, the front driver bears responsibility in rear-end accidents. This typically occurs when the front driver engages in reckless or irresponsible driving. Examples of at-fault behavior in a front vehicle include:

  • Braking abruptly to stop or slow down dramatically
  • Failing to signal before a left or right turn or lane change
  • Failing to check rear-view mirrors or blind spots before changing lanes

A team of skilled attorneys like those at Dan Davis Law in Oklahoma City has the resources to thoroughly investigate your accident to determine fault and present evidence in your claim for compensation and damages. An investigation includes reviewing surveillance videos, accident scene photos, witness testimony, and in some cases, forensic evidence and accident reconstruction experts.

Common Injuries From Rear-End Accidents

Injuries from a rear-end collision can range from inconvenient and uncomfortable, to catastrophic and life-changing depending on the force of the impact, the size and weight of both vehicles, and other circumstances. Common injuries from these accidents include:

  • Whiplash
  • Back injury, including herniated disks
  • Broken bones including limbs and ribs
  • Internal organ damage
  • Head injuries and brain damage, including Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

These and other injuries require extensive medical treatments and recovery periods, and some injuries are life-changing, resulting in long-lasting or permanent impairment or disabilities. Some rear-end collisions can cause fatalities.

You and your family need the time and financial security it takes to heal and recover from injuries sustained in a rear-end accident. A claim for compensation and damages can help ease your recovery.

What Damages to Expect After a Rear-End Accident Claim

An experienced Oklahoma City injury attorney knows how to maximize your claim so you can get the most financial compensation and damages after a rear-end accident. When the other driver is at fault, you’re entitled to full compensation for the following:

  • Medical expenses and future medical expenses
  • Property damage
  • Lost wages
  • Lost future income
  • Pain and suffering, and in some cases, loss of enjoyment of life, and punitive damages

If you’ve been injured in a rear-end accident in Oklahoma, contact our office today for an evaluation so we can begin our strategy to advocate for your rights and maximize your financial compensation.