Car accidents in Florida are an unfortunate reality, and rear-end accidents are among the most common types of accidents on the road. These incidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor to severe, impacting victims physically, emotionally, and financially. If you’ve been injured in a rear-end accident in Florida, talk to an Orlando car accident attorney at the Martinez Manglardi personal injury law firm. Call 407-846-2240 for a free consultation.
Rear-End Collision Statistics
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), rear-end accidents constituted 32.5% of all accidents in 2019. They were responsible for approximately 7% of accident-related fatalities and caused injuries in 31.1% of cases. Neither the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles nor the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FHSMV) reports on the overall number of rear-end collisions that occur every year in Florida. However, an analysis of Florida car crashes by the FHSMV shows that following too closely accounts for nearly 30% of all Florida traffic accidents resulting in serious injury.
Common Rear-End Accident Injuries
1. Whiplash
Whiplash is the most common injury sustained in rear-end accidents. The abrupt forward and backward movement of the neck during impact can cause neck pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and even neurological issues. Although insurance companies may dismiss whiplash as a minor injury, it can lead to chronic pain and long-term disability if not treated properly.
2. Back Injuries
Lower back injuries are also prevalent in rear-end accidents. The force exerted on the body during a collision can strain or tear the muscles and ligaments in the back, resulting in pain and limited mobility. In some cases, victims may experience herniated discs, which may require surgery and lead to persistent discomfort.
3. Head and Brain Injuries
The impact of a rear-end collision can cause occupants to strike their heads on steering wheels, dashboards, or windows. This can result in concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Head injuries can manifest in various symptoms, including headaches, confusion, cognitive impairment, and behavioral changes.
4. Chest Injuries
The force generated by a rear-end accident can propel occupants forward, causing their chests to collide with the steering wheel. Common chest injuries include bruises, fractures, and internal bleeding.
5. Spinal Cord Injuries
Severe rear-end accidents can lead to spinal cord injuries, which may result in temporary or permanent paralysis. These injuries often require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
6. Psychological Injuries
While physical injuries are more visible, the emotional impact of a rear-end accident should not be overlooked. Victims can suffer from emotional distress, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Psychological injuries can be just as debilitating as physical ones, and require proper recognition and treatment.
7. Wrongful Death
Tragically, some rear-end collision injuries can be fatal. In such cases, surviving family members may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim against the party responsible for the collision.
Establishing Fault in Rear-End Accidents
Determining fault is a crucial aspect of seeking compensation for rear-end accident injuries. In most cases, the driver of the rear vehicle is considered at fault for causing the collision. This assumption stems from the expectation that drivers should maintain a safe following distance and pay careful attention to the movements of the vehicles ahead.
Negligence plays a significant role in establishing fault in rear-end accidents. Drivers have a legal obligation to exercise a reasonable degree of care while on the road, including following traffic rules, maintaining a safe distance, and keeping a safe speed.
Rear-End Collision Injury Lawyer
If you’ve been hurt in a rear-end accident, call 407-846-2240 for a free consultation with an Orlando car accident attorney at the Martinez Manglardi personal injury law firm. With offices in Orlando, Kissimmee, Apopka, Palm Bay, Ocala, and Haines City.
