Immediately after an auto accident in the San Fernando Valley, it is common for those involved to start finger-pointing. This makes sense for a handful of reasons, including that being at fault for an accident can affect everything from the cost of your insurance premium to “points” on your driving record. Not only that, but the driver who is responsible for causing the accident is liable for your injuries. So if fault is slightly unclear (i.e. the driver didn’t run a red light and crash into you, a scenario where fault is obvious), how do you prove that you are entitled to financial compensation?
Different types of auto accidents
Car accidents occur in a variety of ways (click this link to see a visual of the various types of car accidents). A common collision, and the one we will be discussing in this article, is the rear-ender. While there seems to be a belief among many that rear-end car accidents are always the fault of the driver who rear ended the car in front, this is not always the case. Read on to learn why and under what circumstances the driver of the vehicle that rear ends another vehicle may not always be at fault…
Rear end accidents
According to the National Safety Council, there are more than 6 million car accidents each year. Of those, 2.5 million are rear-end auto accidents. Common causes of rear-end accidents in Woodland Hills include:
- Tailgating
- Distracted driving
- Driver intoxication
- Road defects
- Children or pedestrians in the street
- Construction
- Police presence
- Faulty brake lights
This list is not exhaustive. If you or your loved one has been injured in a rear end accident, contact an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss your legal rights.
Injuries from rear enders
Even the seemingly smallest of rear end accidents can cause injury. One of the most common injuries resulting from an auto accident of any type is whiplash. “Whiplash” is a term used to describe pain and stiffness in the neck and shoulder area that occurs when the neck and spine suddenly and violently move, or “snap” well beyond their normal range. Learn more about this serious condition here.
Perhaps you were involved in a rear-ender and the force of the crash was so strong, your airbags deployed, and you suffered facial burns and lacerations from the airbags. Or perhaps your airbags did not deploy and your face smashed into the steering wheel. The force of the impact can break noses, fracture cheeks and jawbones, and even detach retinas. Less serious injuries can include cuts, bruises, and scrape) to your face and scalp. Whatever the case may be, if your injuries were a result of another driver’s neligence, you may be able to recover financially for the injuries you suffered.
To discuss your rear end accident case with an experienced attorney, contact Woodland Hills personal injury lawyer Barry P. Goldberg today.
