There are several types of collisions that occur daily, including head-on accidents, rear-end crashes, and side-impact collisions. But do you know what the most common type of car crash is in this country? According to statistics, rear-end collisions are the most common type of car crash in California and throughout the nation.
Why do rear-end crashes in Orange County occur more than other types of collisions?
In Orange County, it seems obvious why rear-end crashes occur most commonly. Just take a look at the overly-crowded, congested streets and highways. Commuting in bumper-to-bumper traffic increases motorists’ chances of being involved in rear-end accidents due to stop-and-go traffic. Rush hour traffic can be moving along quickly when, all of a sudden, brake lights appear and one car slams into the back of the other. This often happens on Orange County freeways, due to the fast deceleration of the cars in front.
We also live in a fast-paced society. Many people in Southern California are always in a hurry to get to their destinations. The feeling of rushing around can cause drivers to follow too closely. When the car in front stops suddenly, the vehicle that is following too closely doesn’t have time to stop, creating a rear-end crash.
Other reasons for rear-end collisions include: not having enough time to stop, not paying attention, not hitting the brakes fast enough, and not being able to judge how quickly traffic is stopping.
Injuries Resulting from Rear-End Car Crashes
Most people think of Southern California rear-end collisions as mere fender-benders that only produce minor injuries or whiplash. While this is true in most rear-end cases, there also have been rear-end accidents that have produced catastrophic injuries or death.
Because the person who is rear-ended gets thrown forward while being held back by the seat belt, his or her head, lacking restraint, snaps forward. Serious neck and spine injuries have been sustained in these types of crashes, resulting in chronic pain, muscle spasms, nerve damage, herniated spinal discs, head injuries, and more.
Due to the sudden jolting impact that causes a driver to be thrown back and forth, serious injuries can occur as a result of rear-end collisions. If you have sustained a head injury, serious back and neck injuries, a herniated disc, or other types of severe injuries, then please contact the Law Office of John P. Burns to speak with a knowledgeable Orange County personal injury lawyer today. Call (877) 320-1338 for a free consultation, and download a FREE copy of our book, 9 Mistakes That Can Ruin Your California Vehicle Accident Case, written by attorney John Burns.
I rear ended a stalled vehicle on the freeway. I do not think it is entirely my fault and would like to see what my rights are.
Hi Nicole, thank you for reaching out. Feel free to email me at john@johnburnslaw.com and we can discuss what happened.